Jajangmyeon: Korean Black Bean Noodles Extravaganza

Jajangmyeon is a delicious Korean-Chinese fusion dish consisting of thick noodles doused in a savory black bean sauce. This meal is rich, flavorful, and perfect for satisfying your comfort food cravings. The name “Jajangmyeon” translates to “fried sauce sauce noodles,” and it typically features diced pork or beef, mixed vegetables, and sometimes seafood, all combined with the signature black bean paste, known as chunjang.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh or dried jajangmyeon noodles (or any thick wheat noodles)
– 1/2 cup chunjang (Korean black bean paste)
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 tbsp sugar
– 200 grams pork belly or lean pork, diced (can substitute with beef or tofu)
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 small zucchini, diced
– 1/2 onion, chopped
– 1/2 cup cabbage, chopped
– 1/2 cup water or low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 cucumber, julienned (for garnish)
– 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
– Optional: shrimp or squid for added seafood flavor

Instructions:
1. Prepare the Noodles: Cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

2. Fry the Black Bean Paste: In a large pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chunjang and fry it in the oil for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This will reduce some bitterness from the paste. Then, mix in the sugar to balance the flavors.

3. Cook the Meat and Vegetables: Add the diced pork (or beef/tofu) to the pan and stir-fry until the meat is thoroughly cooked. Following that, toss in the potatoes, zucchini, cabbage, and onions. Continue to stir-fry for another 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

4. Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the water or chicken broth, stirring to combine everything. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the vegetables to cook through.

5. Combine Noodles and Sauce: Add the cooked noodles to the pan and toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated with the rich black bean sauce.

6. Serve: Transfer the Jajangmyeon to individual serving bowls. Garnish with julienned cucumber and chopped green onions. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your homemade Jajangmyeon, a delightful exploration of Korean-Chinese cuisine that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds!