Name: Beef Stir Fry with Glass Noodles (Japchae) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 6 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce; 4 tablespoons sesame oil; 3 tablespoons sugar; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Toasted sesame seeds, plus more for garnish; 7 ounces Korean potato starch noodles (glass noodles); 1 pound flank steak, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 cups baby spinach; 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided; 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced; 2 medium carrots, cut into matchsticks; 2 green onions, root ends removed, cut into bite-sized pieces; 4 to 5 fresh portobello mushrooms, thinly sliced; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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If there is one dish that perfectly captures the heart and soul of Korean home cooking, it’s got to be the Beef Stir Fry with Glass Noodles (Japchae) Recipe. This vibrant, flavorful stir fry combines tender strips of marinated beef with slippery, translucent glass noodles, fresh vegetables, and a harmonious blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic. Each bite bursts with a delightful mix of textures and savory-sweet notes that make Japchae an absolute crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving it for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Trust me, once you make this dish, it’ll quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows different ingredients on a white marbled surface, each in a white dish or plate. One white plate holds thinly sliced raw pink meat in uneven pieces. Another white plate contains four sections: thin orange carrot sticks, light green chopped green onions, white sliced onion rings, and several brown mushroom slices. There is a white bowl filled with fresh bright green spinach leaves. Small white bowls hold white sesame seeds, a mix of black and white pepper with salt, a golden-brown liquid (likely oil), granulated white sugar, and a dark soy sauce. There's also a small beige dish holding finely chopped garlic. A few bundles of thin white rice noodles sit at the top right. The colors are bright and the textures are clear with a bright and clean background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of the Beef Stir Fry with Glass Noodles (Japchae) Recipe lies in its simplicity, yet each ingredient plays a crucial role. From the chewy glass noodles to the umami-rich flank steak and crisp-tender veggies, every element contributes layers of flavor, texture, and visual appeal that make this dish unforgettable.

6 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce: Provides a savory umami base without overpowering saltiness.
4 tablespoons sesame oil: Adds a toasty, nutty aroma essential for authentic flavor.
3 tablespoons sugar: Balances the soy sauce with subtle sweetness for depth.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a fragrant kick that ties everything together.
Toasted sesame seeds, plus more for garnish: Adds crunch and nutty richness.
7 ounces Korean potato starch noodles (glass noodles): Delicate, translucent noodles that soak up the sauce beautifully.
1 pound flank steak, cut into bite-sized pieces: Tender and flavorful meat that’s perfect for quick stir-frying.
2 cups bunch baby spinach: Adds vibrant green color and a hint of earthiness.
3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided: For sautéing the veggies and beef just right without sticking.
1 yellow onion, thinly sliced: Offers mild sweetness and a slight crunch.
2 medium carrots, cut into matchsticks: Bright orange color and natural sweetness.
2 green onions, cut into bite-sized pieces: Adds gentle pungency and a fresh finish.
4 to 5 fresh portobello mushrooms, thinly sliced: Earthy flavor and meaty texture that complements the beef.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: To season and enhance all the flavors in the dish.

How to Make Beef Stir Fry with Glass Noodles (Japchae) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Seasoning Mix

Begin by combining the soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, minced garlic, and toasted sesame seeds in a small bowl. This sauce is the backbone of the dish, delivering that signature balance of salty, sweet, and nutty flavors. Mixing it upfront lets the ingredients meld beautifully, ensuring every component of your stir fry tastes cohesive and vibrant.

Step 2: Soften the Glass Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then remove from heat and add the Korean potato starch noodles. Let them sit for 7 to 8 minutes or follow the package instructions until they’re tender but not mushy. Drain, rinse briefly under cold water to halt the cooking, and set aside. These delicate noodles will soak up the seasoning marvelously, becoming the silky thread that links every element together.

Step 3: Marinate the Beef

Place the flank steak pieces in a bowl and toss them with about 3 tablespoons of the seasoning mix. Allow the beef to marinate while you prepare the rest of the ingredients. This brief marination tenderizes the meat and infuses it with that irresistible savory-sweet goodness that will shine through the final dish.

Step 4: Season the Noodles

Take the drained noodles and add 2 tablespoons of the seasoning mixture. Mix well to coat the noodles evenly, giving them a beautiful sheen and deep flavor. Set these aside as you move on to the veggies and beef.

Step 5: Cook the Spinach

Blanch the baby spinach by dropping it into a pot of boiling salted water for about 30 seconds. Then rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process and help the spinach retain its vibrant green color and nutrients. Drain the spinach thoroughly before setting it aside.

Step 6: Stir Fry the Vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions, matchstick carrots, and green onions with a pinch of salt. Stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until the veggies are fragrant yet still crisp, then transfer them to a plate to rest. This step ensures your vegetables keep their beautiful color and satisfying crunch.

Step 7: Cook the Beef

Add a bit more vegetable oil to the skillet, raise the heat to medium-high, and stir-fry the marinated beef for 4 to 5 minutes until it’s cooked through and beautifully caramelized. The high heat seals in the juices and creates delicious browning that elevates the flavor.

Step 8: Add Mushrooms and Finish Cooking

Stir in the sliced portobello mushrooms with the beef, cover the skillet, and let them cook for about 3 minutes until tender. The mushrooms soak up the rich flavors from the beef and seasoning, adding an earthy depth that rounds out the dish perfectly.

Step 9: Combine Noodles and Sauce

To the skillet, add the seasoned glass noodles and the remaining seasoning mixture. Toss everything together thoroughly to coat the noodles and ensure all the ingredients are evenly flavored. Once the sauce has been absorbed and heated through, remove from heat and transfer to a large mixing bowl.

Step 10: Mix in Vegetables and Final Seasoning

Add the sautéed vegetables, blanched spinach, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently but thoroughly so each bite features a perfect balance of beef, noodles, and veggies. Garnish with extra toasted sesame seeds and, if you like, a dash more sesame oil or soy sauce to tailor the taste to your liking.

How to Serve Beef Stir Fry with Glass Noodles (Japchae) Recipe

The dish shows a white bowl filled with thin, translucent noodles mixed with browned meat pieces, green leafy vegetables, and sliced white onions. The noodles are lifted by a woman's hand, creating a tall, tangled swirl above the bowl. The meat pieces are dark brown and slightly shiny, scattered evenly among the noodles and vegetables. The green vegetables are vibrant and fresh, contrasting with the translucent noodles and caramelized meat. In the background, there is another bowl with a white marbled surface under it and a small white cup containing a light colored sauce or broth. The light is bright and natural. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The finishing touches make all the difference. Sprinkle extra toasted sesame seeds over your Japchae for a lovely crunch and nutty aroma that make each bite more exciting. A few thin strips of egg omelet or slivers of red chili can add color and an extra layer of texture if you’re feeling adventurous.

Side Dishes

Japchae is wonderfully versatile on the table. Pair it with simple steamed rice to soak up any extra sauce or add a bowl of kimchi to provide a spicy, refreshing contrast. Pickled radishes or lightly steamed broccoli also complement Japchae’s rich, savory profile beautifully, creating a balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Japchae in small lettuce cups as a fresh, hand-held appetizer. Alternatively, layering Japchae over a bed of colorful mixed greens or garnishing with edible flowers can turn this humble stir fry into a stunning centerpiece for your dining table. Presentation just makes the experience all the more special!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Japchae keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because the noodles absorb the sauce even more as they sit, the flavors deepen overnight. Just be sure to store it separately from any fresh garnishes to preserve their texture.

Freezing

Freezing Japchae is not ideal as the glass noodles can become mushy and lose their chewy texture upon thawing. If you must freeze leftovers, do so for no longer than one month and reheat gently to preserve as much of the original texture and flavor as possible.

Reheating

Reheat Japchae gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a teaspoon or two of water or additional sesame oil to prevent sticking. Avoid microwaving for prolonged periods to keep the noodles just right. Stir occasionally until warmed through, and garnish again before serving.

FAQs

Can I use other types of noodles instead of glass noodles?

While glass noodles are traditional for Japchae, you could substitute with shirataki or sweet potato starch noodles. Avoid regular wheat pasta as it won’t absorb the flavors or have the characteristic chewy texture.

What cut of beef works best for this recipe?

Flank steak is ideal because it’s lean, tender, and holds up well to quick stir-frying. However, skirt steak or sirloin can also be great alternatives if you prefer.

Is Japchae traditionally served hot or cold?

Japchae can be enjoyed either warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for leftovers or as part of a picnic. Both ways taste delicious and showcase different aspects of the flavors and textures.

Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit the beef and boost the mushrooms or add other veggies like bell peppers and zucchini. Use a vegan soy sauce and consider substituting sesame oil for a mild vegetable oil if preferred.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

From prepping to plating, expect about 30 to 40 minutes. It’s a wonderful recipe for quick, impressive meals that don’t require hours in the kitchen.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend making the Beef Stir Fry with Glass Noodles (Japchae) Recipe enough. It’s a soulful dish that tastes way more complex than the simple ingredients suggest, bursting with vibrant colors, diverse textures, and comforting flavors. Whether you’re new to Korean cooking or a seasoned fan, this recipe will quickly win a place in your repertoire—and your heart.