How to Make Vegetarian Japchae (Quick and Easy Korean Glass Noodles)

Learn how to make vegetarian japchae, a delicious Korean side dish made up of assorted vegetables, delectable sweet potato noodles, and a tangy sauce. It’s no wonder there’s a reason that japchae is one of Korea’s most popular foods! When you add in the sweetness of the honey, it creates a sweet and tangy stir-fry sauce. In addition, the variety of crunchy vegetables mixes with the chewy glass noodles, combining a variety of exciting flavors and textures.

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What Is Japchae?

Japchae is a popular Korean side dish of stir-fried glass noodles and assorted vegetables typically eaten for special occasions and traditional holidays. The word “japchae” translates to “mixed vegetables.” However, the main ingredient of this dish is actually the glass noodles made from sweet potato starch!

Usually, japchae has meat, but it’s easy to make it vegetarian by omitting the meat. Therefore, this noodle dish is the perfect base for those who are both plant-based and meat-eaters. In addition, you can serve japchae either hot or cold, making this dish perfect for any season.

Origin of Japchae

Japchae was first created in the 1600s when the Joseon Dynasty reigned over the Korean peninsula. One of the king’s lieges, Yi Chung, came up with this dish to please the king. As a result, the king liked it so much that he declared it a royal dish!

Is Japchae Easy to Make? 

The short answer is yes- japchae is very easy to make! 

After chopping your vegetables and prepping your ingredients, japchae takes less than 15 minutes to stir fry. This is especially the case if you make vegetarian japchae, which doesn’t require any meat preparation. Not only is this a delicious meal that the entire family will love, but it makes for an ultra-easy weeknight side dish.

Different Variations of Japchae

While the standard version of japchae is straightforward and delicious, there are many ways to create other versions of this dish. 

Here Are a Few Different Versions of Japchae:

• Gochu Japchae: Made with shredded green peppers and other vegetables.
• Buchu Japchae: Made with stir-fried chives and meat.
• Jukson Japchae: Made with bamboo shoots.
• Ueong Japchae: Made with burdock roots.
• Kongnamul Japchae: Made with soybean sprouts.

Is Japchae Usually Vegetarian?

Typically, japchae has meat added for extra protein and flavor. However, vegetarians or vegans commonly omit the meat, adding tofu or another plant-based protein source.

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Plant-Based Protein Options for Japchae

If you are a meat-eater, feel free to add any type of meat or seafood of your choice, which pairs nicely with this dish. However, if you are a vegetarian, here are a few other ways to add more protein to this meal:

Tofu

You can bake or fry your tofu. Baked tofu has crispy edges and warm insides, while fried tofu will turn golden brown. Either way, it’s a delicious addition to your japchae.

Edamame

Edamame has over 18 grams of protein per serving. Therefore, edamame can add a lot of substance to this Korean dish.

Beans

These are used frequently in Korean cooking, especially red beans, mung beans, and soybeans.

Mock Meats

Consider adding vegetarian chicken, beef, or pork for more protein and flavor.

Eggs

Suppose you’re a vegetarian, not a vegan. In that case, eggs can be a great source of protein and a fantastic addition to japchae. You can scramble an egg and add it in. In addition, you can fry an egg and put it on top or add hard-boiled eggs to the side.

Is Japchae Gluten-Free?

The main ingredient of japchae is glass noodles, made from sweet potato starch and contain no wheat or gluten. If you follow my recipe, which uses tamari instead of soy sauce, this entire recipe is safe for those on a gluten-free diet! You can find Korean glass noodles in the noodle aisle of your local Asian supermarket.

Is Japchae Healthy?

Generally, the ingredients included in japchae are very healthy. In addition, this dish has several vegetables, which are good sources of fiber and micronutrients. 

In addition, Korean glass noodles, made from sweet potatoes, are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates. 

Because vegetarian japchae doesn’t naturally have a lot of protein, you will want to add a plant-based protein source to this meal. Adding protein can prevent you from overeating and help keep you fuller for longer.

Tips for Making Japchae

Tip 1. To prevent the noodles from sticking together, coat them with a little bit of sesame oil while they are still warm after draining.

Tip 2. While sauteing and seasoning all of the ingredients together may save time, consider seasoning and preparing each component separately. This is the traditional way of preparing japchae. Also, taste your japchae multiple times as you prepare it.

Tip 3. Season the noodles two or three times. This may seem excessive, but glass noodles are incredibly absorbent. They will likely taste bland if you only season them once. 

Tip 4. Don’t overcook the spinach. Also, try to buy your spinach from an Asian market, which usually has young and tender spinach in stock.

Vegetarian Japchae Recipe

Ingredients

Servings: 2

• 100 grams of sweet potato noodles
• 1 clove of garlic (minced)
• 1 carrot (thinly sliced)
• 1/2 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
• 1 stalk of green onion (chopped into 3-inch pieces)
• 1/2 of yellow onion (sliced)
• 60 grams of mushroom (sliced)
• 1 bunch of baby spinach
• salt and pepper to taste

Sauce

• 2 tbsp tamari
• 2 tsp honey
• 1 tsp sesame oil

Cookware and Tools

• Deep saute pan or wok
• Wooden cooking utensils
• Measuring cups and spoons

How to Make Vegetarian Japchae (Step-by-Step)

Step 1. Cook the Sweet Potato Noodles

Cook the sweet potato noodles according to your packaging. Drain, add a small amount of sesame oil (to keep from sticking) and set aside.

Step 2. Cook the Veggies

On medium to medium-high heat, saute the onions for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the onions become slightly translucent.

Then, add the mushrooms and green onions. Saute for about 1 minute.

Step 3. Combine the Remaining Ingredients

Toss the sweet potato noodles back into the saute pan and the japchae sauce. Use a tong to ensure all of the ingredients are combined.

Lastly, add the spinach (you can really add as much as you want!), and stir it into the noodles until it wilts. Salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately.

How to Store Japchae

Japchae will spoil if you leave it out for more than a few hours, especially during warm temperatures. Therefore, be sure to store it in the refrigerator as soon as possible.

Japchae can keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.

How to Reheat Japchae

While you can microwave japchae, the best way to reheat it is in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Stir it often as it is reheating on the stove. 

Because this dish can be eaten both hot or cold, you don’t necessarily have to reheat it. Feel free to eat it straight out of the fridge for a cold lunch on a warm day.

The Takeaway

Japchae is easy to make, delicious, and perfect for vegans, vegetarians, and those who are gluten-free. As a result, this recipe needs to be in every cook’s wheelhouse!

Did you make this recipe? Please leave a comment and star rating below! I’d love to hear from you.