Recipe #10 : Japchae (Sweet potato noodles)

Japchae is traditionally made for parties or celebrations, but I like to make it for a weekday dinner. They are incredibly easy to make and super delicious. 

INGREDIENTS

8 ounces sweet potato noodles (can be found in most Asian supermarkets)

Produce:

Meat/ protein - beef, pork or chicken -cut into thin strips or shrimp (deveined)

1/2 bunch spinach (about 4 ounces), rinsed and trimmed

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 medium onion, sliced

3 to 4 shiitake mushrooms (replace with any kind, if you like), sliced

1 carrot, shredded or cut into thin strips

1/4 cup sugar (optional, but worth it)

Salt

For garnish:

3 green onions, cut into 1-inch pieces

Toasted sesame seeds 

Sauces and Oil: 

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

2 tablespoon Asian sesame oil

1/4 cup soy sauce

METHOD

- Cook the sweet potato noodles in a large pot of boiling water for 4 to 5 minutes. Immediately drain and rinse thoroughly under cold water. Be sure not to overcook the noodles. 

- Heat the oils (vegetable and sesame) in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add garlic, meat (chicken/ beef strips/shrimp) and soy sauce. Stir-fry until the meat is cooked, 5-8 minutes. Add the onion, mushrooms, spinach and carrot and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes. 

- Add the green onions and stir-fry for another minute. Remove from the heat.

- In a large bowl, thoroughly combine the noodles with sauteed meat and veggies and the sugar. Serve warm, sprinkled with sesame seeds.