Jajangmyeon (Korean Black Bean Noodles) Recipe

Introduction

Jajangmyeon is a beloved Korean-Chinese dish featuring chewy noodles coated in a rich, savory black bean sauce. This simple yet flavorful meal is perfect for a quick lunch or comfort dinner at home.

Ingredients

• 200g noodles (preferably wheat noodles)
• 150g pork, diced
• 3 tablespoons black bean paste (chunjang)
• 1 medium onion, diced

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a pan over medium heat, sauté the diced pork until browned. Add the diced onion and cook until soft.
2. Step 2: Stir in the black bean paste and a little water, then simmer the sauce until it thickens and flavors blend.
3. Step 3: Meanwhile, cook the noodles according to package instructions, then drain.
4. Step 4: Toss the cooked noodles with the black bean sauce until well coated. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• For extra texture, add diced zucchini or potatoes to the sauce while cooking.
• Use beef or chicken instead of pork for a different protein option.
• Add a touch of sugar or honey to balance the saltiness of the black bean paste.
• Garnish with sliced cucumbers or boiled eggs for a fresh contrast.

Storage

Store leftover black bean sauce and noodles separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the sauce on the stove and toss with warmed noodles before serving to maintain the best texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought black bean paste for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought black bean paste (chunjang) is commonly used and readily available in Asian grocery stores. It provides the distinctive savory flavor needed for authentic jajangmyeon.

What type of noodles work best for jajangmyeon?

Wheat-based noodles with a chewy texture, such as fresh or dried Korean-style noodles, work best as they hold the thick sauce well without becoming soggy.

Jajangmyeon (Korean Black Bean Noodles) Recipe

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4.7 from 120 reviews

Jajangmyeon is a popular Korean-Chinese noodle dish featuring chewy wheat noodles topped with a savory black bean sauce made from fermented black bean paste, pork, and vegetables. This comforting dish balances rich umami flavors with a hint of sweetness and a satisfying texture, perfect for a quick and hearty meal.

• Author: Kai
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Korean

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Noodles

• 200g fresh wheat noodles or udon noodles

Sauce

• 150g pork shoulder, diced
• 2 tablespoons Korean black bean paste (Chunjang)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup water or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

1. Prepare the noodles: Boil a pot of water and cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 3 to 5 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and set aside.
2. Cook the pork and vegetables: Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add diced pork and cook until browned and cooked through. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add black bean paste and seasoning: Stir in the black bean paste, cooking briefly to release its aroma. Pour in water or chicken broth, add sugar and soy sauce, and mix well. Let it simmer for 5 to 7 minutes to meld the flavors.
4. Thicken the sauce: If desired, add the cornstarch slurry gradually while stirring until the sauce reaches a thick, glossy consistency.
5. Toss and serve: Place the cooked noodles in a serving bowl and pour the black bean sauce over them. Mix gently to combine and serve immediately, optionally garnished with sliced cucumber or chopped green onions.

Notes

• Use fresh noodles for the best texture, but dried noodles can be substituted if fresh are unavailable.
• Chunjang (Korean black bean paste) can be found at Asian grocery stores or online.
• Vegetarians can substitute pork with tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free noodles and verify that black bean paste is gluten-free.
• Garnishes like julienned cucumber or boiled egg add an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Keywords: Jajangmyeon, Korean black bean noodles, Korean noodles, black bean sauce, Korean-Chinese cuisine