Sweet Potato Noodles (Japchae)

Ingredients for Sweet Potato Noodles (Japchae)

• 230g sweet potato noodles

• 1/2 bunch spinach (about 110g ), rinsed and trimmed

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon plus 1 1/2 teaspoons Asian sesame oil

• 1/4 teaspoons salt

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

• 170g beef rib-eye, cut into 1/4- to 1/2-inch-thick strips

• 60ml plus 1 teaspoon soy sauce

• 1/4 medium onion, sliced

• 3 to 4 pyongo or shiitake mushrooms, sliced

• 1 carrot, shredded or cut into thin strips

• 3 spring onions, cut into 1-inch pieces

• 50g sugar

• Toasted sesame seeds for garnish

How to make Sweet Potato Noodles (Japchae)

Cook the sweet potato noodles in a large pot of boiling water for 4 to 5 minutes. Immediately drain and rinse thoroughly under cold water. Be sure not to overcook the noodles, or they will lose their chewy texture. If you like, cut the noodles with scissors into 6- to 7-inch lengths for easier eating.

Blanch the spinach in boiling water. Rinse immediately under cold water, squeeze the water from the leaves and form into a ball, and then cut the ball in half. Combine the spinach, half the garlic, 1/2 teaspoons of the sesame oil, and 1/4 teaspoons salt in a small bowl. Set aside to let the flavours soak in.

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef, the remaining garlic, 1 teaspoon of the soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon of the sesame oil. Stir-fry until the beef is cooked, 3 to 4 minutes. Add the onion, mushrooms, and carrot and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the spring onions and stir-fry for another minute. Remove from the heat.

In a large bowl, thoroughly combine the noodles, beef mixture, spinach, remaining 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, and the sugar. Serve warm, sprinkled with sesame seeds.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.