Japchae Sweet Potato Glass Noodles

Boil a large pot of water. Add the sweet potato glass noodles and cook according to package directions, usually 6-8 minutes, until transparent and chewy. Drain the noodles and rinse thoroughly under cold water to prevent sticking. Cut the noodles into shorter lengths (about 6-8 inches) with kitchen shears and toss with 1 tablespoon of sesame oil to keep them from clumping.

If using beef, slice it thinly. In a small bowl, combine the beef with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1/2 tablespoon sugar, 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic, and a pinch of black pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 10 minutes while you prepare other ingredients.

Blanch the spinach in boiling water for about 30 seconds until wilted. Immediately transfer to an ice bath, then squeeze out excess water. Season with 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic, 1/2 tablespoon sesame oil, and a pinch of salt. Separately, julienne the carrots and bell peppers, slice the onion and shiitake mushrooms.

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Stir-fry the marinated beef until fully cooked, then remove and set aside. In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed, and stir-fry the onions until translucent. Add carrots and bell peppers, stir-frying for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender-crisp. Add the shiitake mushrooms and cook until softened. Remove all vegetables and set aside, keeping them separate.

In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 4 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 1/2 tablespoons of sugar, and 2 tablespoons of sesame oil. Ensure the sugar is fully dissolved.

In the large pan or wok (no need to clean), add the cooked noodles. Pour the Japchae sauce over the noodles and stir-fry over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, tossing continuously to ensure the noodles are evenly coated and absorb the sauce. The noodles should become slightly glossy and caramelized.

Turn off the heat. Add the cooked beef, spinach, and all the stir-fried vegetables back into the pan with the noodles. Toss everything gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary (add more soy sauce or sugar to your preference). Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and serve warm or at room temperature.