Love is Sweet & Savory

Just like many of you out there, I’ve been binge watching new series. Currently, I’m watching a new Korean drama called Crash Landing On You on Netflix. I’m smitten by the love-confused characters Mr. Ri and Se-Ri. Why is it that when I see a food scene wherever it’s filmed - food documentary, featured recipes on the news, or a movie, it makes me want to search for the closest Korean, Indian, Chinese, or Middle Eastern Restaurant!? I know why because food is essential just like watching your favorite show, and you’ve got to have it! Crash Landing On You inspired me to look deep into my pantry and feed my soul last night and this morning. I made Japchae, which translates to “mixed vegetables” although the main component is the sweet potato Vermicelli noodle. This is a stir fried side dish that Koreans prepare on big occasions like the holidays. The wide translucent noodles have a slippery, slightly chewy texture. Locate your local Hmart or order online. When I added a squirt of Sriracha as my finishing touch, OMG! MY MOUTH WAS DOING THE HAPPY DANCE! Making the sweet potato noodle dish is a little time consuming but I added my own short cut (my mother-in-law’s stuffed cabbage rolls aka leftovers that wasn’t going to go to waste). I was very shocked that the addition of a small amount of tomato sauce and diced tomatoes could elevate the dish. I've made it before, following the laborious steps but it didn't shake me to my core until now. After all, we are living during a pandemic, so the more leftovers we can consume the better!

Currently, Michigan is on the top US state list for rising covid-19 confirmed cases. This is more reason to think more positive and watch a new show! Without further ado, I present you… leftover stuffed cabbage rolls that was added to my Sweet Potato Stir-Fry recipe! (yes, be creative and use what you have). Bless my mother-in-law for sharing her stuffed cabbage rolls with us! It was less cooking and cleaning for 1 day! Do you have any leftovers? Tell me what you’re watching currently! I need new shows. Scroll below for easy Sweet Potato Noodle Stir-Fry!