Japchae: Korean Celebration Noodles

Japchae: Korean Celebration Noodles

Japchae, meaning "mixed stir-fried vegetables," is a vibrant and flavorful Korean dish traditionally served during special occasions and holidays, birthdays and weddings. Its history stretches back centuries, originating from royal court cuisine and evolving over time to become a beloved staple in Korean homes. Japchae symbolizes harmony and prosperity with its colorful mix of ingredients and textures, making it a perfect centerpiece for any celebration.

Ingredients:

• Noodles: 7 oz Korean potato starch noodles (dangmyeon)
• Vegetables:
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1/2 onion, julienned
• 4 ounces shiitake mushrooms,sliced
• 6 ounces spinach. Quick blanched.
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced
• Egg (optional garnish)
• One red pepper, julienned
• One green pepper ,julienned
• Protein: 4 ounces thinly sliced beef or pork (optional)
• Sauce:
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 2 tsp minced garlic
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Garnish: Sesame seeds, toasted
• Oil for stir-frying

Instructions:

1. Blanch the noodles in boiling water for 2 minutes.:  rinse and drain. Cut with scissors for easier handling.
2. Prepare the vegetables: Julienne the carrot and onion, slice the mushrooms,
3. Thinly slice the scallions.
4. Blanch the spinach in boling water, just until they wilt. Quickly transfer to cold ice water bath. Squeeze the water out and set aside. 
5. Marinate the protein (optional):Combine the sliced protein with 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1/2 tsp sesame oil, and 1/4 tsp minced garlic.  Marinate for 15 minutes.
6. Make the sauce: Whisk together soy sauce, remaining sesame oil, sugar, garlic, and black pepper.
7. Whisk the egg until beaten. Cook on a non-stick frying pan with a small amount of canola or vegetable oil. In a medium low heat, make a thin layer of egg like a crepe. It will be done once the egg looks fully cooked but not brown. Transfer to a cutting board. Roll the egg and thinly julienne slice. Set aside for garnish. 
8. Stir-fry: Heat oil in a wok or large pan over high heat. Add the protein (if using) and cook until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.
9. Add vegetables: Stir-fry the onion and mushrooms for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the carrot and cook for another 2 minutes. Place the cooked vegetables on a separate platter to hold.
10. Cook the noodles:  Add the noodles to the pan. Pour half the sauce over the noodles and toss to coat. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the noodles are heated through. Noodles should be translucent and soft with an al dente texture. 
11. Combine and finish: Add the cooked protein (if using), remaining vegetables, and spinach back to the pan. Pour the remaining sauce over everything and toss gently to combine. Garnish with julienned egg. 
12. Serve: Transfer the japchae to a serving platter and garnish with sesame seeds. Serve warm as part of a celebratory feast!

Tips:

• Use a variety of colorful vegetables for a visually appealing dish. Feel free to add more vegetables like sliced cabbage, or zucchini.
• Adjust the amount of sauce to your preference.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in a pan over medium heat.

Enjoy this delicious and symbolic dish with your loved ones, and let the vibrant flavors of Japchae fill your celebrations with joy and prosperity!