Pure Joy of Wholesome Korean Japchae
Cooking and eating natural, wholesome food has been a cornerstone of my journey toward good health and vitality. Rather than adhering to a strict diet, I prioritised home-cooked meals brimming with clean, wholesome ingredients, seasoned with authentic flavours from diverse culinary traditions. This approach not only blessed me with sustainable fitness but also the simple joy of good food in my daily life.
Drawing inspiration from ancient Chinese wisdom on the healing properties of vegetables and herbs, alongside modern scientific insights into the benefits of unprocessed foods, I’ve found that the nourishment from natural foods is both well-documented and transformative.
One of my favourite dishes to cook that embodies this philosophy is Korean Chicken Japchae, made with sweet potato noodles. This dish is not only irresistibly delicious but also nourishing for my body and spirit. The act of cooking and tasting such a meal brings me immense happiness, immersing me in the pure joy of good food.
Korean Chicken Japchae Glass Noodles with Shiitake Mushroom and Spinach
While everyone loves noodles, traditional white flour noodles often lack nutritional value, as they are primarily composed of simple carbohydrates that quickly convert to sugar. Sweet potato noodles, however, offer a nutritious and tasty alternative. These humble sweet potatoes are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fibres that support heart, and digestive health. Remarkably, just one sweet potato provides 100% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin A, essential for eye health.
In Korean japchae, these noodles are known as glass noodles, a beautiful name given their alluring appearance and elastic texture, which makes every bite satisfying.
For my version of Korean Japchae, I included chicken, spinach, and shiitake mushrooms, creating a simple yet delectable home-cooked meal. By using less oil than typically found in restaurant versions, and not using store-bought sauce, I was able to maintain a healthier profile without sacrificing its flavour.
Here's a little profile of the ingredients and their health benefits:
Sweet Potato: Rich in vitamin A, supporting eye health.
Chicken Breast: A source of protein, the building block of life, providing amino acids that aid in muscle growth, tissue repair, and mood enhancement.
Shiitake Mushrooms: Contain selenium, which boosts the immune system and may slow ageing.
Spinach: Packed with vitamins A and C, supporting both the immune and digestive systems.