Korean Glass Noodles (Jap Chae)

The type of noodles used in this dish is made from sweet potato starch and translucent when cooked, hence the English name, 'glass noodles.' They are also gluten free and are wonderfully springy and light. These noodles can be served hot, room temperature, or even slightly chilled; they are very versatile. They can be found at most Asian markets.

• Preparation Time: 20 mins
• Cooking Time: 15 mins
• Total Time: 35 mins
• Calories: 442 Calories

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons white sugar
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil
• 2 carrots, cut into matchsticks
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• ¾ cup thinly sliced onions
• ½ pound dried Korean sweet potato noodles
• 2 ½ teaspoons sesame oil, divided
• 3 scallions, cut into 1-inch lengths
• ½ cup thinly sliced shiitake mushrooms
• ½ pound spinach, well washed and drained

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring to a rolling boil; stir in vermicelli pasta and return to a boil. Cook pasta uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender yet firm to the bite, about 5 minutes. Drain and return to the pot; toss with 1 teaspoon sesame oil. Use kitchen shears to cut noodles into approximately 8-inch lengths. Set noodles aside.

Step 2

Mix soy sauce and sugar together in a bowl. Heat oil in a large saute pan or wok over high heat and swirl to coat. Add carrots and onions to the hot oil and fry until just softened, about 1 minute. Add garlic, scallions, and mushrooms and fry for 30 seconds more. Add spinach, soy sauce mixture, and cooked noodles. Fry until noodles are warmed through, 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and toss with sesame seeds and remaining sesame oil.