Spicy Chewy Noodles (Jjolmyeon)
Equipment
Ingredients
Noodles
- 6 oz chewy noodles, jjolmyeon noodles, see note 1
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons gochujang
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
Optional Garnish
- Thinly sliced red cabbage
- Bean sprouts
- Julienne cucumber
- Hard boiled egg, halved
- Extra sesame seeds
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, vinegar, garlic, honey, and sesame seeds. Mix thoroughly and set aside.
- Cook noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and firm them up.
- Toss the cold noodles in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Plate the noodles and top with garnishes like red cabbage, sprouts, cucumber, egg, and more sesame seeds.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Table of Contents
What Makes Spicy Chewy Noodles So Addictively Chewy
Spicy Chewy Noodles (Jjolmyeon) might just be one of Korea’s most underrated noodle dishes. It’s cold, chewy, and smothered in a sweet and spicy gochujang sauce that wakes up your whole palate. The crisp vegetables and soft boiled egg make it a complete meal, but it still feels light and refreshing. Perfect for summer days or any time you want something bold but cold.
Why Spicy Chewy Noodles Will Be Your New Favorite Quick Meal
Not only does this come together in under 10 minutes, but the flavor and texture payoff is massive. The noodles have that signature QQ chew, the sauce is spicy, tangy, and nutty, and the garnishes bring freshness and crunch. It’s easy to customize and perfect for meal prep, too.
Ingredients for Spicy Chewy Noodles (Jjolmyeon)
You only need a handful of ingredients to make this punchy, refreshing dish. The gochujang base brings the heat, vinegar cuts through the richness, and honey balances it all out. Topped with crunchy veg and soft egg, it’s a simple but perfect harmony of textures and flavors.
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons gochujang
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
Noodles
- 6 oz chewy noodles (jjolmyeon or similar)
Optional Garnish
- Red cabbage
- Bean sprouts
- Cucumber
- Hard boiled egg
- Extra sesame seeds
How to Make Spicy Chewy Noodles
Step-by-Step Instructions
Mix together the sauce ingredients in a bowl until smooth and well combined.
Cook noodles until just chewy, then rinse under cold water and drain.
Toss the noodles thoroughly in the sauce.
Plate with your preferred garnishes, go colorful and crunchy!!
Tips and Variations
Can I use other noodles?
Yes! While jjolmyeon has the ideal chewy texture, rice noodles, soba, or even spaghetti will work in a pinch.
Can I make it more/less spicy?
Absolutely. Add more gochujang for heat, or tone it down with extra honey or a splash of cold water in the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes, but store the sauce and noodles separately for best texture. Toss together just before serving.
Is this served hot or cold?
It’s traditionally a cold dish, perfect for hot weather, but you can enjoy it slightly warm if preferred.
What protein can I add?
Sliced tofu, shredded chicken, or even a scoop of spicy tuna make great protein-packed additions.
You Might Also Like
Love chewy noodles? Try my Sesame Noodles.
Want something meaty and crispy? Go for my Korean Fried Chicken Tenders.
Need more noodle inspo? Don’t miss my Gochujang Alfredo.
