Name: Korean Glass Noodle Stir Fry: Quick, Flavorful, and Gluten-Free
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup chicken bone broth (substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option); 1/4 cup tamari (gluten-free soy sauce); 2 tablespoons coconut sugar (substitute with brown sugar or honey); 2 teaspoons sesame oil (use olive oil if unavailable); 1 tablespoon arrowroot starch (cornstarch can be an alternative); a pinch crushed red pepper flakes (omit or use less for milder dish); 12 ounces Korean glass noodles (substitute with rice noodles if desired); 3 tablespoons avocado oil (can replace with vegetable or grapeseed oil); 1 pound ground chicken (substitute with tofu or tempeh for plant-based option); 1/2 pound shiitake mushrooms (switch to button mushrooms if preferred); 1 large carrot (swap with other vegetables like zucchini if preferred); 1 colorful bell pepper (substitute with any sweet pepper variety); 3 green onions (can be replaced with red onions); 3 cloves garlic (omit if not to taste); to taste sesame seeds (skip or use pumpkin seeds if allergies are a concern)

As I stirred the vibrant colors of vegetables and savory ground chicken, a wave of nostalgia washed over me. This Korean Glass Noodle Stir Fry has become my go-to dish for busy weeknights when I crave something comforting yet light. It’s not just quick and easy; it’s a gluten-free triumph that packs a protein punch! The delightful chewiness of the glass noodles entwines with the sweetness of colorful bell peppers and the rich umami flavor of shiitake mushrooms, creating a harmony of tastes that satisfy even the pickiest eaters. And let’s not forget about the leftovers – they taste even better the next day! Ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Grab your skillet, and let’s make a meal that will leave your family asking for seconds!

Why is this stir fry a must-try?

Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delicious meal, perfect for those busy weeknights.

Healthy and Nourishing: Packed with protein and fiber, this Korean Glass Noodle Stir Fry promotes a nutritious lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.

Customizable Goodness: With versatile ingredient options, you can easily adapt it to fit your dietary needs or whatever you have on hand. Swap in tofu or any veggies you love!

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for family meals or a cozy gathering with friends, this dish appeals to all ages and tastes.

Meal Prep Friendly: Enjoy delicious leftovers that maintain their delightful texture, making it a smart choice for meal prep enthusiasts. Why not pair it with Chicken Teriyaki Noodles for a delightful two-night dinner adventure?

Korean Glass Noodle Stir Fry Ingredients

For the Sauce
• Chicken Bone Broth – Provides a savory base for the sauce; substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• Tamari – Adds a saltiness and umami; it’s gluten-free soy sauce and can be swapped with regular soy sauce if gluten isn’t a concern.
• Coconut Sugar – Adds sweetness to balance flavors; substitute with brown sugar or honey, keeping dietary restrictions in mind.
• Sesame Oil – Enhances the dish with a nutty aroma; if unavailable, use olive oil but note the flavor change.
• Arrowroot Starch – Used as a thickener for the sauce; cornstarch can be an alternative.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Adds heat; omit or use less if you prefer a milder dish.

For the Noodles
• Korean Glass Noodles (12 ounces) – The star of the dish, gluten-free and chewy; substitute with rice noodles if desired.
• Avocado Oil (3 tablespoons) – High-heat cooking oil; can replace with vegetable or grapeseed oil.

For the Stir Fry
• Ground Chicken (1 pound) – A flavorful protein source; for a plant-based option, consider tofu or tempeh.
• Shiitake Mushrooms (½ pound) – Introduces umami and texture; switch to button mushrooms if preferred.
• Carrot (1 large) – Adds sweetness and crunch; swap in other vegetables like zucchini if preferred.
• Bell Pepper (1 colorful) – Contributes color and sweetness; substitute with any sweet pepper variety you enjoy.
• Green Onions (3) – Provide freshness and a lovely garnish; can be replaced with red onions.
• Garlic (3 cloves) – Enhances flavor; feel free to omit if garlic isn’t to your taste.

For Garnishing
• Sesame Seeds – Used for texture and garnish; skip or use pumpkin seeds if allergies are a concern.

Dive into this Korean Glass Noodle Stir Fry and create a meal your family will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for KOREAN GLASS NOODLE STIR FRY

Step 1: Make the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of chicken bone broth, 1/4 cup of tamari, 2 tablespoons of coconut sugar, 2 teaspoons of sesame oil, 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, and 2 teaspoons of arrowroot starch. Aim for a smooth consistency, and set aside. This savory and slightly sweet sauce will bring your Korean Glass Noodle Stir Fry to life.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Prepare the Korean glass noodles by boiling them according to the package instructions, which typically takes about 6 minutes. Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to prevent sticking. Ensure they’re thoroughly drained, as we want them to be chewy and ready for the stir fry.

Step 3: Stir Fry the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium-high heat. Add ½ pound of sliced shiitake mushrooms and sauté for about 2 minutes until golden. Pour in 2 tablespoons of tamari, flip the mushrooms, and continue cooking for another 2 minutes. Remove them from the skillet and set aside, allowing their flavor to escape into the oil.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Using the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of avocado oil along with 1 pound of ground chicken. Cook the chicken over medium-high heat for about 6-8 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks until it turns a light golden color with no pink remaining. Season with salt to enhance the flavor of the meat, making it a delicious base for your stir fry.

Step 5: Add Veggies
Stir in the sliced carrot, bell pepper, and chopped green onions into the skillet with the chicken. Sauté the mixture for about 3 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and become vibrant. Add 3 minced cloves of garlic, stirring for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant and tender, infusing the stir fry with a delightful aroma.

Step 6: Combine and Thicken
Pour the pre-made sauce into the skillet, allowing it to deglaze the pan as it combines with the chicken and veggies. Cook for 3-5 minutes on medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens and coats the mixture beautifully. This step is crucial for achieving a rich flavor in your Korean Glass Noodle Stir Fry.

Step 7: Finish the Dish
Finally, stir in the rinsed glass noodles and sautéed mushrooms into the skillet. Toss everything together gently for about 2-3 minutes until heated through and evenly mixed. Serve the dish in bowls, garnishing with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and extra green onions for a pop of color and flavor.

Expert Tips for Korean Glass Noodle Stir Fry

Perfect Noodle Preparation: Rinse the cooked Korean glass noodles under cold water to keep them chewy and prevent sticking. This ensures a delightful texture in the dish.
Watch the Heat: When cooking the chicken and veggies, be mindful of the heat. Cook at medium-high to avoid burning, but high enough for that satisfying stir-fry sizzle.
Don’t Skip Deglazing: Deglaze the pan after cooking the chicken and veggies to capture all those delicious browned bits, enhancing the flavors of your Korean Glass Noodle Stir Fry.
Storage Secrets: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making for an even tastier second-day meal!
Customize Freely: Feel free to swap the ground chicken for tofu or shrimp, and mix in seasonal veggies to keep the dish fresh and exciting every time.

Variations & Substitutions for KOREAN GLASS NOODLE STIR FRY

Feel free to explore these delightful twists and swaps that can elevate your Korean Glass Noodle Stir Fry!

Plant-Based Protein: Substitute ground chicken with firm tofu or tempeh for a tasty vegan option. Texture and flavor can vary, but you might discover a new favorite!
Gluten-Free Swap: If you have a gluten sensitivity, use gluten-free soy sauce instead of tamari. Your taste buds won’t notice the difference!
Sweetener Options: Replace coconut sugar with brown sugar or honey to balance the dish’s sweetness, depending on what you have on hand.
Veggie Variety: Feel free to substitute seasonal vegetables like snap peas or broccoli for the carrot and bell pepper. It’s a great way to sneak in extra nutrients and flavors!
Heat Level: Adjust the spice by using fewer crushed red pepper flakes or swapping in a milder chili paste. You can totally customize the heat level to your liking!
Oil Alternatives: If avocado oil isn’t available, canola or grapeseed oil work perfectly for this stir fry. Each brings a unique flavor!
Texture Boost: For added crunch, toss in some water chestnuts or toasted cashews just before serving. They make each bite exciting!
Serve It Differently: Try serving this stir fry over a bed of fresh greens or mixed with a hearty broth for a nourishing soup style. Pair it with Garlic Chicken Noodles for an exciting fusion dinner!

With these delightful variations, you can put your own spin on this comforting dish and keep your family coming back for more!

How to Store and Freeze Korean Glass Noodle Stir Fry

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors develop beautifully, making your next meal an exciting treat!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Note that glass noodles may lose some texture when thawed.

Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of water or broth in a skillet over medium heat to revive the noodles’ chewiness and warmth.

Leftover Tip: Leftover Korean Glass Noodle Stir Fry tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld together perfectly!

Make Ahead Options

These Korean Glass Noodle Stir Fry is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance. Just whisk together the sauce ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain flavor integrity. Additionally, cook the noodles and store them separately to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat a skillet, cook the ground chicken along with the veggies, add the sauce, and toss in your pre-cooked noodles for a quick and comforting meal that’s just as delicious as when freshly made!

What to Serve with Korean Glass Noodle Stir Fry?

Imagine a feast of flavors that takes your dinner from ordinary to extraordinary, creating a memorable culinary experience.

Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing crunch that complements the hearty stir fry, this salad brings a burst of coolness to your meal. Tossed in a light vinaigrette, it sharpens your palate and balances the richness.
Steamed Edamame: These protein-packed pods offer a satisfying bite and a nibble-worthy experience that everyone enjoys. Their light saltiness pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of the noodle dish.
Miso Soup: This warm, comforting broth adds a depth of flavor while remaining light. Enjoy it as a soothing starter that opens the appetite for the delicious meal ahead.
Sesame Roasted Broccoli: Roasted to perfection, broccoli drizzled with sesame oil enhances the meal with earthy, nutty notes. The crispy texture provides a wonderful contrast to the chewiness of the noodles.
Garlic Fried Rice: A simple yet flavorful side that elevates your dinner. The aromatic garlic and tender rice are doused in soy sauce, creating a unified flavor with the glass noodles.
Chilled Green Tea: Refreshing and soothing, this beverage offers a calming element that beautifully compliments the dish’s richness. Its subtle flavors cleanse the palate, making every bite even more enjoyable.
Mango Sticky Rice: For a delightful dessert, this sweet treat rounds out your meal well. The creamy coconut and fresh mango adds a luscious finish, creating a perfect sweet contrast to the savory stir fry.
Fruit Sorbet: A light and refreshing option, this sorbet cleanses the palate and brings a refreshing burst of flavor after the hearty meal. Perfect for a light finish!

Korean Glass Noodle Stir Fry Recipe FAQs

What type of glass noodles should I use?
Absolutely, for this recipe, I recommend using authentic Korean glass noodles made from sweet potato starch, often labeled as “dangmyeon.” They provide the best chewiness and texture. However, if you can’t find them, feel free to substitute with rice noodles, which will still work well in the stir fry.

How do I store leftover Korean Glass Noodle Stir Fry?
Store any leftover Korean Glass Noodle Stir Fry in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to avoid excess condensation that could make the noodles soggy.

Can I freeze this stir fry?
Yes, you can freeze your Korean Glass Noodle Stir Fry! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it should last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to keep the noodles chewy.

What if my glass noodles are sticking together?
No worries! If your glass noodles are sticking, try rinsing them under cold water after boiling to stop the cooking process and separate them. When you’re ready to use them, toss them in a bit of oil to prevent further sticking before adding them to your stir fry.

Is this recipe suitable for my allergy needs?
Very! This Korean Glass Noodle Stir Fry can easily be adapted for various dietary needs. For gluten-free, ensure you’re using tamari instead of regular soy sauce. If you’re concerned about sesame allergies, feel free to substitute sesame oil and seeds with olive oil or sunflower seeds. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure safety for specific allergies.

Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Definitely! To make this dish vegetarian or vegan, simply swap the ground chicken for tofu or tempeh, following the same cooking instructions. Add additional vegetables of your choice to boost flavor and texture, and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth for the sauce. Adjust seasoning to taste, and you’ll still have a protein-packed meal!