Easy Japchae Bap: Budget-Friendly Korean Comfort Food

Craving a delicious and satisfying Korean meal without breaking the bank? Look no further than Japchae Bap, a delightful fusion of two beloved Korean dishes: Japchae (glass noodles with vegetables and meat) and Bap (rice). This easy-to-make recipe offers a budget-friendly way to enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures of authentic Korean cuisine. Forget complicated techniques and expensive ingredients; this recipe simplifies the process, resulting in a hearty and flavorful one-bowl wonder perfect for a weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal.

Japchae Bap expertly combines the sweet and savory notes of stir-fried vegetables and glass noodles with the comforting simplicity of steamed rice. The result is a balanced and satisfying meal that’s both visually appealing and incredibly delicious. Ready to create your own bowl of this easy and flavorful Korean comfort food? Let's dive into the simple step-by-step instructions below!

Tools Needed

  • Pot
  • Plate
  • Paper cup

Ingredients

  • Ottogi Japchae Ramen: 1 pack
  • Onion: 4
  • Sesame oil: null
  • Hot white rice: null
  • Jjajang sauce (optional): null
  • Pepper (optional): null
  • Sesame seeds (optional): null

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Japchae Noodles

  • Prepare one pack of Ottogi Japchae Ramen.
  • Add the soup base and noodles to the pot.
  • Add four thinly sliced onions.
  • Boil for 5 minutes until all the water has boiled away.
Prepare one pack of Ottogi Japchae Ramen.
Prepare the Japchae Noodles
  • Drain well and add a small amount of sesame oil.

Step 2. Cook the Noodles

  • Pour water from the pan into a paper cup and put it on a plate.
  • Boil for 5 minutes until all the water has boiled away.
Pour water from the pan into a paper cup and put it on a plate.
Cook the Noodles

Step 3. Season and Serve

  • Drain well and add a small amount of sesame oil.

Step 4. Assemble your Japchae Bap

  • Serve the Japchae next to hot white rice.
  • For Jjajang Bap, spread Jjajang sauce for 3 minutes and finish with pepper and sesame seeds.

Read more: Glass Noodle Stir-fry with Shrimp & Veggies: Easy Korean Recipe

Tips

  • Adding onions makes the Japchae look more authentic and reduces saltiness.
  • Adding ingredients 1 minute before the end ensures a visually appealing result.

Nutrition

  • N/A

FAQs

1. Can I substitute the beef with other protein?

Absolutely! Chicken, pork, tofu, or even shrimp are great substitutes. Adjust cooking time as needed.

2. What if I don't have sweet potato noodles (dangmyeon)?

Regular thin spaghetti or even fettuccine can work in a pinch, though the texture will be slightly different.

3. How can I make this recipe even more budget-friendly?

Use seasonal vegetables, buy ingredients in bulk when possible, and consider omitting the meat altogether for a vegetarian version.


Enjoy your homemade bowl of Easy Japchae Bap – a testament to how delicious and satisfying budget-friendly meals can be. This recipe is a perfect starting point for experimenting with Korean flavors and adapting it to your own tastes. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to savor this comforting and flavorful Korean dish!