Description
Black bean noodles, known as Jajangmyeon, are a popular dish rooted in both Chinese and Korean culinary traditions. This hearty noodle dish features thick noodles smothered in a savory black bean paste sauce, delivering rich umami flavors. Enjoyed worldwide, Jajangmyeon is a comforting meal that can be easily customized.
Ingredients
Scale
- 200g Noodles (fresh or instant)
- 3 tablespoons Black Bean Paste (Chunjang)
- 200g Pork Belly (or tofu for a vegan option)
- 1 Onion, chopped
- 1 Zucchini, diced
- 1 Potato, cubed
- 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (for thickening)
- 1 cup Broth or Water
- Oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles:
- Boil the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan. Add chopped onions, zucchini, and cubed potatoes. Stir-fry until softened.
- Prepare the Black Bean Sauce:
- Add the black bean paste to the pan and fry it lightly for 1-2 minutes to enhance its flavor.
- Add Protein:
- Incorporate the pork belly (or tofu) into the pan. Cook until browned.
- Simmer the Sauce:
- Pour in the broth or water and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
- Thicken with Cornstarch:
- Mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry. Stir it into the sauce to achieve a glossy texture.
- Serve:
- Place the cooked noodles in bowls, pour the black bean sauce over them, and garnish with cucumber slices if desired.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with air-fried vegetables like zucchini for a balanced meal.
- Serve with pickled radish to cut through the richness of the sauce.
- Enjoy with a side salad for added freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What do black bean noodles taste like?
- They have a rich umami flavor with a hint of sweetness.
- Are black bean noodles healthy?
- Yes, especially when prepared with vegetables and lean protein.
- Can black bean noodles be made vegan?
- Absolutely! Substitute pork with tofu or mushrooms.
- How many calories are in black bean noodles?
- A typical serving contains around 600-700 calories, depending on ingredients.
Tips for Perfecting Your Jajangmyeon at Home
- Use Fresh Noodles: They provide a better texture than dried or instant varieties.
- Customize Your Sauce: Adjust sweetness by adding sugar or honey.
- Balance with Pickles: Pairing with pickled vegetables enhances flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes