Are you tired of boring, bland vegetable sides that leave your taste buds begging for excitement? Get ready to revolutionize your dining experience with Sigeumchi Namul, a vibrant and incredibly simple Korean spinach side dish that packs a flavor punch in just minutes! This emerald-green delicacy isn't just a side dish—it's a culinary adventure that will transport your senses straight to the heart of Korean cuisine, all while being incredibly nutritious and surprisingly easy to prepare.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Korean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh spinach
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the fresh spinach under cold running water, removing any damaged or wilted leaves. Drain well in a colander.
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
- Quickly blanch the spinach by submerging it in boiling water for approximately 30-45 seconds. The spinach should turn bright green and become slightly wilted.
- Immediately drain the spinach and transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This helps maintain the vibrant green color and crisp texture.
- Once cooled, gently squeeze out excess water from the spinach using your hands or a clean kitchen towel. Be careful not to crush the leaves completely.
- In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and a small pinch of salt. Whisk these ingredients together to create the seasoning sauce.
- Add the blanched and drained spinach to the seasoning sauce. Gently toss and mix to ensure the spinach is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the seasoned spinach, providing an additional layer of nutty flavor and texture.
- Transfer the spinach to a serving dish. Can be served immediately or chilled for a refreshing side dish.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Spinach: Always select crisp, bright green spinach leaves without any yellowing or wilting for the best texture and flavor.
- Master the Blanching Technique: The key to perfect Sigeumchi Namul is quick blanching. Watch your spinach closely—30-45 seconds is all you need to achieve that bright green color without overcooking.
- Ice Bath is Essential: The ice water bath is crucial for stopping the cooking process and preserving the spinach's vibrant color and crisp texture. Don't skip this step!
- Remove Excess Water: Thoroughly squeeze out water from the spinach, but be gentle to maintain its delicate structure.
- Toast Sesame Seeds: For an extra layer of flavor, lightly toast your sesame seeds in a dry pan before sprinkling them over the dish.
- Serve Chilled or at Room Temperature: This versatile side dish can be enjoyed immediately or chilled, making it perfect for meal prep and advanced planning.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 45kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 3g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
