1. Prepare the Noodles:
- Cook the jajangmyeon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to remove excess starch. Set aside.
2. Cook the Pork and Vegetables:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced pork belly and cook until the fat renders and the meat turns golden brown.
- Add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant. Then add the onion, potato, zucchini, and cabbage. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
3. Make the Black Bean Sauce:
- Push the vegetables and pork to the side of the pan, creating a space in the center. Add the chunjang (black bean paste) to the center and stir-fry it in the oil for about 2 minutes. This helps remove any bitterness and deepens the flavor of the paste.
- Mix the paste with the pork and vegetables, coating everything evenly. Add the sugar, oyster sauce, and water (or chicken broth), stirring well. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
4. Thicken the Sauce:
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly until the sauce is rich and glossy.
5. Serve:
- Divide the cooked noodles into bowls. Ladle the jajang sauce generously over the noodles. Top with cucumber matchsticks for a refreshing crunch, and drizzle a little sesame oil if desired.
6. Enjoy:
- Serve your jajangmyeon with pickled radish (danmuji) on the side for a tangy contrast that complements the deep, savory flavors of the dish.
Tips for the Best Jajangmyeon:
- Chunjang Paste: The quality of your chunjang greatly impacts the dish. Opt for a good Korean brand to get the best flavor.
- Customize Your Protein: While pork is traditional, you can substitute it with chicken, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Balancing the Bitterness: The sugar in this recipe helps balance the slightly bitter taste of the black bean paste. Feel free to adjust the sweetness to your liking.
Jajangmyeon is more than just a dish—it’s a bowl of warmth and comfort. The savory, umami-rich black bean sauce clings to every strand of noodle, creating an irresistible combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re indulging solo or sharing with loved ones, this dish is sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart.