Definition & Meaning of "japchae"

What is "japchae"?

Japchae is a popular Korean dish that features glass noodles made from sweet potato starch, along with a variety of vegetables such as carrots, spinach, and mushrooms, and often includes beef or other meat. The ingredients are stir-fried together with a sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and other spices, which gives the dish a savory and slightly sweet flavor. Japchae is often garnished with sesame seeds and thinly sliced egg, and may be served hot or cold. The dish is a staple of Korean cuisine and is often enjoyed as a side dish or as a main course. It can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences, and can be made vegetarian or vegan by omitting the meat.