Korean stir-fried glass noodles(Japchae)

Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to making Japchae (Korean stir-fried glass noodles), designed for beginners and non-Korean speakers:

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Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

• Glass Noodles (Dangmyeon): 200g (Sweet potato starch noodles)
• Vegetables:
  • Spinach: 1 bunch
  • Carrot: 1 medium, julienned
  • Onion: 1, sliced
  • Bell peppers (red, yellow, or green): 1-2, sliced
  • Mushrooms (shiitake or other): 5-6, sliced
• Protein (optional):
  • Thinly sliced beef, pork, or tofu: 100-150g
• Seasoning:
  • Soy sauce: 3-4 tablespoons
  • Sugar: 1 tablespoon
  • Sesame oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Minced garlic: 1 teaspoon
  • Sesame seeds: 1 teaspoon (for garnish)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Noodles

1. Soak the glass noodles in warm water for 20-30 minutes until soft.
2. Boil them in water for 6-8 minutes until fully cooked but chewy.
3. Drain and rinse under cold water. Toss with a little sesame oil to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Vegetables and Protein

1. Spinach: Blanch in boiling water for 30 seconds, rinse under cold water, squeeze out excess water, and season with a pinch of salt and sesame oil.
2. Other Vegetables: Slice carrots, onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms thinly for quick cooking.
3. Protein: If using beef, marinate with soy sauce, garlic, and sugar for 10 minutes.

3. Stir-Fry Ingredients Separately

1. Heat oil in a pan or wok. Stir-fry each vegetable type (carrots, onions, mushrooms, bell peppers) separately until just tender. Set aside.
2. Cook the protein until browned and fully cooked. Set aside.

4. Combine Everything

1. In a large pan or wok, combine the cooked noodles, vegetables, and protein.
2. Add soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and minced garlic. Mix thoroughly over low heat.
3. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serve

1. Transfer to a serving plate or bowl.
2. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for garnish. Serve warm or at room temperature.

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Tips

• Adjust the soy sauce and sugar based on your taste preferences.
• Vegetables and proteins can vary depending on what you have available (e.g., zucchini, snap peas, or chicken).
• Japchae can be made vegetarian by omitting meat and using soy sauce instead of fish sauce (if applicable).

Let me know if you’d like an illustration or specific modifications for dietary preferences!