Seasoned Spinach, also known as Sigeumchi Namul, is a light and flavorful Korean side dish that complements various main dishes such as stir-fried noodles, rice and seaweed rolls (kimbap), and rice mixed with vegetables (bibimbap). As one of the most common namul dishes, it is considered an essential component of Korean cuisine, providing a balance of fresh flavors and lightly seasoned vegetables. Served warm or at room temperature, this versatile side dish, or mit banchan, is quick to prepare and can be enjoyed as a nutritious addition to any meal. The combination of soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and sesame seeds creates a delightful glaze that enhances the taste of the spinach, making it a popular and beloved dish among Koreans. Whether you’re exploring Korean cuisine or looking to diversify your vegetable dishes, Seasoned Spinach is a delightful option that will please your taste buds and add a vibrant touch to your table.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 pound fresh spinach
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 teaspoons sesame salt (see Ingredient Tip)
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons sugar
PREPARATIONS
- Bring a medium saucepan of water to a boil over high heat. Drop in the spinach and blanch for 30 seconds until wilted. Drain in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking. Gently squeeze to remove excess water.
- In a medium bowl, mix the spinach with the soy sauce, sesame oil, sesame seeds, sesame salt, garlic, and sugar and toss to combine.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
YIELD
- Serves 5 as a side dish
TIPS
- Sesame salt is a popular condiment in Korean and Japanese cooking, used in marinades, seasonings, and as a topping for stews and vegetable dishes. You can find it in Korean grocery stores and online. If you don’t have sesame salt, you can add 1 teaspoon of salt and an additional 1 teaspoon of soy sauce.
In conclusion, Seasoned Spinach, or Sigeumchi Namul, is a delightful and versatile Korean side dish that beautifully complements a variety of main dishes. Whether paired with stir-fried noodles, kimbap, or bibimbap, this dish adds a burst of fresh flavors and lightly seasoned goodness to any meal. Quick to prepare and boasting a combination of soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, sesame seeds, and sesame salt, this mit banchan is loved for its simplicity and vibrant taste.
Seasoned Spinach is an excellent way to incorporate nutritious greens into your diet, adding a delightful touch to your dining experience. As an essential part of Korean cuisine, it not only pleases the palate but also brings the authentic flavors of Korea to your table. Whether you’re a fan of Korean dishes or simply looking to explore new vegetable side dishes, Sigeumchi Namul is sure to become a beloved addition to your culinary repertoire.
