Bulgogi Japchae

Today on the Takrecipe website, we’re diving into the delicious world of Bulgogi Japchae, a flavorful Korean dish that combines tender, marinated beef with chewy glass noodles and crisp vegetables. This dish is a popular celebratory meal in Korea, often enjoyed at festivals, parties, and family gatherings. With its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, Bulgogi Japchae is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves authentic Korean cuisine. Let’s explore how to make this mouthwatering dish at home!

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• For the Bulgogi Marinade:
• 300g (10.5 oz) beef (ribeye or sirloin), thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp minced ginger
• 1 tbsp grated pear (optional, for tenderness)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• For the Japchae:
• 200g (7 oz) sweet potato glass noodles (dangmyeon)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 1 small carrot, julienned
• ½ red bell pepper, julienned
• ½ yellow bell pepper, julienned
• 100g (3.5 oz) spinach
• 3 shiitake mushrooms, thinly sliced
• 2 eggs
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
• 1 scallion, finely chopped
• ½ tsp black pepper

Marinate the Bulgogi

In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, minced ginger, grated pear (if using), and black pepper. Add the thinly sliced beef and mix well, ensuring all pieces are coated. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).

Prepare the Glass Noodles

Boil water in a large pot and cook the sweet potato glass noodles according to the package instructions (usually 6-8 minutes). Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking. Cut the noodles with scissors into more manageable lengths and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables

Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté for 2 minutes until slightly translucent. Then, add the carrots, bell peppers, and shiitake mushrooms, stirring frequently for about 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Wilt the Spinach

In the same pan, quickly blanch the spinach by adding a splash of water and stirring for 1 minute until wilted. Remove from heat, squeeze out excess water, and set aside.

Scramble the Eggs

In a small bowl, beat the eggs and cook them in a lightly oiled pan over medium heat, making a thin omelet. Once cooked, roll it up and slice into thin strips.

Cook the Bulgogi

Using the same pan, cook the marinated beef over medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes until browned and caramelized. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once done, set aside.

Combine Everything

In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, stir-fried vegetables, spinach, and bulgogi. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. Toss everything together until evenly coated and well-mixed.

Final Touches and Serve

Transfer the Bulgogi Japchae to a serving dish. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped scallions. Serve warm and enjoy this delightful Korean dish!

Cooking Tips

Use Ribeye or Sirloin for Best Results

🟢These cuts of beef are tender and absorb the marinade well, making the dish more flavorful.

Do Not Overcook the Noodles

🟢Sweet potato noodles should remain chewy, so rinse them under cold water immediately after cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Balance the Flavors

🟢Taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasoning by adding more soy sauce or sesame oil if needed.