Jajangmyeon Recipe: Korean Black Bean Noodles

If you're craving a taste of Korean comfort food, Jajangmyeon is the perfect dish to transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Seoul. This iconic Korean-Chinese noodle dish features thick, chewy noodles smothered in a rich and savory black bean sauce. Follow this step-by-step homemade Jajangmyeon recipe to recreate this delightful dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup black bean paste (chunjang)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup water

For the Noodles:

• 2 packs of fresh or dried jajangmyeon noodles
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 cup diced pork belly 
• 1 cup diced zucchini
• 1 cup diced potatoes
• 1 cup diced onions
• 1 cup diced carrots

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Black Bean Sauce

1. In a bowl, mix the black bean paste, oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and black pepper.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large pan over medium heat.
3. Add the black bean paste mixture to the hot oil and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
4. Pour in 1 cup of water and simmer the sauce for an additional 5-7 minutes until it thickens. Set the sauce aside.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

1. Cook the jajangmyeon noodles according to the package instructions.
2. Drain the noodles and toss them with a tablespoon of vegetable oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Ingredients

1. In the same wok or pan, stir-fry the diced pork or beef until cooked through.
2. Add the diced vegetables—zucchini, potatoes, onions, and carrots—and continue to stir-fry until they are slightly softened.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Pour the prepared black bean sauce over the stir-fried meat and vegetables.
2. Mix the sauce, meat, and vegetables thoroughly until everything is well-coated.
3. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes until the flavors meld together.
4. Serve the black bean sauce over the cooked jajangmyeon noodles.

Garnish and Enjoy:

1. Optionally, garnish with sliced cucumbers or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added freshness and flavor.
2. Mix the noodles and sauce well before digging in, ensuring each bite is a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

Now, you have successfully crafted a homemade bowl of Jajangmyeon—a delectable dish that captures the essence of Korean-Chinese cuisine. Whether you're a fan of Korean dramas or simply love exploring new culinary delights, this recipe brings the authentic taste of Jajangmyeon to your home kitchen.