Viral Korean Japchae (Paleo, Whole30, AIP)

This recipe went viral on Tik Tok and helped me sustain my 45-pound weight loss!

Drool over this Korean Japchae and feel good about eating it because it is Paleo, Whole30, and AIP approved! 

Did you know Korean Japchae can be eaten as an appetizer or side? I used to always request for more of these at an All You Can Eat (AYCE) Korean BBQ. One of my favorite Japchaes is from a Korean fried chicken spot I used to frequent. It’s called Bon Chon! Check them out and get inspired.

If you’re just starting out your Autoimmune Protocol (AIP), Whole30, or Paleo diet, start with this Korean Japchae. The top reason why people cannot stick to their diet goals is because they feel deprived. When I say start with this dish, I am setting you up for success because (1) this recipe has tons of umami flavor that you won’t even feel like you’re on a diet; (2) Korean Japchae is made with sweet potato noodles which means you are AIP-compliant; (3) it is so easy–you will curb your noodle cravings!

How can I make this AIP-compliant?

1. Eliminate Grains – These sweet potato glass noodles are naturally grain free which makes dish even more exceptional!

   • P.S. I have gone to several grocery stores and only found Albertsons to carry it. Save yourself the trouble and order on Amazon.

2. Eliminate Dairy – Traditional Korean Japchae does not use dairy so don’t you worry, honey!

3. Eliminate Sweeteners – This recipe is refined sugar-free. I use Red Boat Fish Sauce as traditional fish sauce have sugar.

   • For some sweetness, melt 2 tbsp of coconut butter or 1 tbsp date syrup and add to dish. The coconut aminos, however, already has a natural sweetness to it.

4. Eliminate Inflammatory Oils – stick to Avocado oil as it has a higher smoking point which ensures it doesn’t go rancid.

   • Once you’ve entered the AIP/Whole30 re-introduction phase, introduce sesame oil to this dish and it will give it much more of an authentic flavor. If you cannot tolerate, omit and it will still taste delicious.

5. Eliminate Legumes – soy sauce, edamame, and tofu are all legumes. Use Coconut Aminos as substitute for soy sauce.

6. Eliminate Nuts and Seeds – Omit sesame seeds.

7. Eliminate Eggs – Omit eggs.

8. Eliminate Nightshades – Omit red bell peppers and chili powder. Black pepper, however, is not a nightshade.

Be careful! This recipe is dangerously good so invite some people over and share so you don’t overeat! On the bright side, if you do eat it alone there will be leftovers.

Marinade:

• 1 lb chicken or 1 lb sirloin steak

• 1 tbsp salt

• 1/3 cup coconut aminos

• 2 tsp apple cider vinegar