Vegan Japchae Style Noodles (stir-fried sweet potato noodles)

There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming plate of Vegan Japchae Style Noodles, a delightful dish that combines the chewy texture of sweet potato noodles with a colorful medley of vegetables. This vegan twist on the traditional Korean dish is not only vibrant but also packed with flavor and nutrients. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these stir-fried sweet potato noodles are sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Imagine a dish that brings together the earthiness of shiitake mushrooms, the sweetness of bell peppers, and the crunch of carrots, all tossed in a savory sauce that’s simply irresistible. The best part? This Vegan Japchae Style Noodles recipe is easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite vegetables. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this dish is a must-try!

What Goes In

• 1 lb Korean glass noodles – These sweet potato starch noodles are the star of the dish, offering a unique chewy texture.
• 1/4 cup soy sauce – Adds a rich umami flavor that brings everything together.
• 2 tbsp maple syrup – Provides a touch of sweetness to balance the savory elements.
• 1 tbsp sesame oil – Infuses the dish with a nutty aroma and taste.
• 1/2 yellow onion, thinly sliced – Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced – Enhances the flavor profile with its aromatic essence.
• 1 large red bell pepper, thinly sliced – Brings color and sweetness.
• 2 large carrots, julienned – Adds crunch and nutrition.
• 8-10 shiitake mushrooms, stem discarded, thinly sliced – Contributes an earthy flavor and texture.
• 2 handfuls spinach or 1 crown of broccoli, chopped – Adds a pop of green and nutrients.
• Sesame seeds for garnish – For a little extra crunch and flavor.
• Green onion for garnish – Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor.

Recommended Tools

• Large skillet or wok – Essential for stir-frying the noodles and vegetables evenly.
• Cooking pot – For boiling the glass noodles before stir-frying.
• Cutting board and knife – For slicing your vegetables to perfection.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate ingredient measurements.

Vegan Japchae Style Noodles (stir-fried sweet potato noodles) — Do This Next

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Begin by boiling water in a cooking pot. Once boiling, add the 1 lb Korean glass noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually around 6-8 minutes, until they are al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp maple syrup, and 1 tbsp sesame oil. This sweet and savory sauce will elevate the flavor of your noodles.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In a large skillet or wok, heat a drizzle of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the 1/2 yellow onion and 2 cloves of garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes, until fragrant. Then, add the 1 large red bell pepper, 2 large carrots, and 8-10 shiitake mushrooms. Stir-fry for another 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp.

Step 4: Combine Noodles and Sauce

Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the sauce over the noodles and toss everything together gently, ensuring the noodles are well coated in the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Add Greens

Finally, stir in the 2 handfuls of spinach or 1 crown of broccoli and cook for an additional minute until the greens are wilted but still vibrant.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Vegan Japchae Style Noodles hot, garnished with sesame seeds and green onion for that extra flair. Enjoy every bite!

Spring to Winter: Ideas

• Add seasonal vegetables like asparagus in spring or Brussels sprouts in winter for a variety of flavors.
• Top with freshly sliced avocado for a creamy texture.
• Incorporate tofu or tempeh for added protein.
• Serve with a side of kimchi for an authentic Korean touch.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

This Vegan Japchae Style Noodles recipe is versatile! Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Remember, the key to a successful stir-fry is high heat and quick cooking to maintain the crunchiness of the veggies.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

Leftover Vegan Japchae Style Noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze them, portion them into freezer-safe bags and they will keep for about a month. To reheat, simply stir-fry in a skillet with a splash of water or vegetable broth to prevent sticking.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use other types of noodles?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses Korean glass noodles, you can substitute them with rice noodles or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make the dish gluten-free. Make sure to check the labels of your noodles, as some may contain gluten.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Definitely! Feel free to add cubed tofu, tempeh, or even chickpeas to boost the protein content of your Vegan Japchae Style Noodles.

How spicy is this recipe?

This recipe is not spicy, but if you enjoy a kick, feel free to add some red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

Because You Liked This

• Vegan Chocolate Cake – Moist and decadent, perfect for dessert!
• Easy Vegan Pasta – A quick and creamy pasta dish that’s sure to please.
• Simple Vegan Chili – Hearty and filling, ideal for chilly nights.

Final Bite

In conclusion, this Vegan Japchae Style Noodles recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors, colors, and textures. With its harmonious blend of vegetables and sweet potato noodles, it’s a dish that’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, channel your inner chef, and treat yourself to a delicious plate of these stir-fried noodles! Happy cooking!