Japchae

1. Soak your noodles in cold water for 40 minutes. 
2. Soak the wood ear mushrooms in cold water for half an hour. 
3. Mix the pork belly with soy sauce, brown sugar, and toasted sesame oil. Set aside for 10 minutes. 
4. Place a skillet on medium heat. Once heated, cook the marinated meat on it for 5-6 minutes, or until it’s cooked. 
5. Combine the ingredients for seasoning — soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and black pepper — in a bowl. Make sure the brown sugar dissolves completely. Set aside. 
6. Drain the wood ear mushrooms, chop off the stems, and cut the caps into small pieces. Place them in a pot. 
7. Add the other mushrooms, onion, and carrot to the pot. 
8. Next, add the vegetable oil along with ¼ cup water to the pot. Now, stir everything together, making sure the vegetables are coated well. 
9. Create a layer of spinach on top of the vegetables. 
10. Drain the noodles and cut them to a length of 4-5 inches with a pair of scissors. Then, place them in the pot on top of the spinach layer. 
11. Pour your seasoning sauce on top of the noodles and cover the pot. Turn the stove on medium-high heat. Now, cook for 10 minutes. 
12. After 10 minutes, remove the lid and continue to cook. Stir continuously, ensuring that all the juices evaporate. 
13. Add the cooked pork belly, one tablespoon of toasted sesame oil, and one tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds. Mix everything well. Serve with the remaining sesame seeds on top. 

Chef Tip: To add another layer to your japchae, you can serve it with a fried egg, scrambled eggs, or a shredded omelette on top. 

Make this easy japchae recipe the next time you want to surprise your loved ones with a wholesome meal or for a dinner party with friends. When they ask for the recipe — which they will — share this link with them!