Japchae
Spice Level: not hot
Chef’s Inspiration
This traditional Korean dish was considered a luxurious and elegant dish served to the royal family and high-level officials. It is made with sweet potato noodles – beautifully translucent with a hint of purple mixed with vegetables.
Preparation
Cut open all bags and toss together in a non-stick pan or wok till internal temperature of your meal has reached 74C (roughly 3-5 minutes on high heat). Finish with toasted sesame seeds.
Nutritional Highlights
This mixed vegetable dish is rich in protein, vitamins (B complex, C, K), calcium, and iron. Adding celery to this dish increases it’s anti-inflammatory health benefits, including its protection against inflammation in the digestive tract. Also added to this dish is nutritional yeast, fortified with B12, a vital nutrient that can be a challenge to obtain from vegan and vegetarian diets.
Protein: Tofu is a complete protein and provides all the essential amino acids allowing the body to form proteins necessary for growth & development.
Vitamin A: This dish supports the immune and inflammatory functions throughout the digestive tract. Spinach, carrots, and kale are excellent sources of vitamin A.
Vitamin B Complex: B vitamins are building blocks for a healthy body and help turn other nutrients into energy, and maintain a healthy metabolism. Spinach, cabbage, bell peppers, broccoli, and chickpea flour are rich in pyridoxine (B6 - may help with improving mood and brain health). Chickpea flour, spinach, and broccoli are also rich in folate (B9 - supports fetal development and growth, and can help prevent cognitive decline).
Vitamin C: Vitamin C helps prevent damage to cells and helps absorb iron in the intestine. Spinach, broccoli, and yellow peppers are excellent sources of Vitamin C.
Vitamin K: Key to helping regulate the body’s inflammatory process. Spinach, celery, and cilantro provide an excellent source of vitamin K.
Calcium: An important mineral in human metabolism. Spinach and tofu are an excellent source of calcium.