Ingredients

4 dried shiitake mushrooms
3 dried wood ear mushrooms
3/4 lb sweet potato noodles
2 king oyster mushrooms
1 medium yellow onion
1 small orange bell pepper
1 small yellow bell pepper
1 small red bell pepper
2 large carrots
3/4 lb chinese chives , ends trimmed
10 tablespoons grapeseed oil ( or other neutral flavored oil )
4 teaspoons grapeseed oil ( or other neutral flavored oil )
1 3/4 teaspoons kosher salt
2 jumbo egg whites , beaten with a pinch of kosher salt
3 jumbo egg yolks , beaten with a pinch of kosher salt
3 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
6 tablespoons soy sauce
1 1/2 tablespoons minced garlic
2 tablespoons honey
1/4 cup finely chopped scallion ( white and green parts )
1 tablespoon roasted sesame seeds
Japchae is a classic Korean dish that is typically served on special occasions like weddings or birthdays. The dish is made with sweet potato noodles, which are stir-fried with an assortment of veggies and protein like beef, chicken, or eggs. The noodles are coated in a savory and slightly sweet soy sauce-based marinade that gives them a rich umami flavor. The bright and colorful mix of vegetables adds a satisfying crunch to each bite. Japchae may seem like a daunting recipe to tackle, but with a little bit of patience and some practice, you can quickly master this delicious dish and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills.

Instructions

1.Soak the shiitake and wood ear mushrooms separately in warm water until they are pliable, about 30 minutes. Squeeze out any excess water from the mushrooms and cut off the stems.
2.Cook the sweet potato noodles according to package instructions until al dente, then rinse under cold running water and drain well.
3.Slice the king oyster mushrooms, onion, bell peppers, and carrots into thin strips. Cut the Chinese chives into 2-inch pieces.
4.Heat the grapeseed oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and stir-fry until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the onion and stir-fry until it is tender and translucent, about 2 minutes.
5.Add the rest of the vegetables and stir-fry until they are just tender, about 3 minutes. Stir in the noodles and sesame oil.
6.Whisk together the soy sauce, garlic, honey, and scallions in a small bowl. Pour the sauce over the noodle mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
7.Cook the beaten egg whites in a nonstick skillet over low heat until they are set, then transfer them to a cutting board and roll them up tightly. Cut the egg into thin strips.
8.Heat the remaining 4 teaspoons of oil in a clean skillet over medium heat. Add the beaten egg yolks and cook until they are set, then transfer them to the cutting board and roll them up tightly. Cut the egg into thin strips.
9.Garnish the noodle mixture with the egg strips and toasted sesame seeds. Serve hot or at room temperature.

PROS

Japchae is a delicious and satisfying noodle dish that is packed with veggies and protein from the eggs.

This recipe is gluten-free and can be made vegetarian by omitting the eggs or using a vegan egg substitute.

Japchae is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed hot or at room temperature, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers for lunch the next day.

CONS

Some of the ingredients may be hard to find if you don’t have access to an Asian grocery store.

Japchae requires a bit of prep work with all the chopping and slicing involved, so it is not the quickest meal to throw together on a busy weeknight.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Sweet potato noodles are a healthier alternative to regular wheat noodles, as they are lower in calories and carbs and higher in fiber and vitamins.
Mushrooms are a great source of antioxidants and other immune-boosting nutrients.
Eggs are an excellent source of protein, healthy fats, and vitamins and minerals like vitamin D and choline.

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