Savory and Delicious Seasoned Spinach (Sigeumchi Namul)
Everyday Side Dish: The Secret to Deliciously Seasoned Spinach
Introducing spinach seasoned to perfection, a staple side dish that’s easy to enjoy daily. Despite its affordability, spinach is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a universally loved dish. Perfect for kimbap fillings or adding a delicious touch to japchae! Let me guide you through the simple and quick steps to make flavorful seasoned spinach.
Essential Ingredients
- 1 bunch fresh spinach (approx. 200-250g)
- Water for blanching (or anchovy-kelp broth)
- 1 tsp coarse salt (for blanching)
- 1/2 tsp fine salt (for seasoning)
- 1/2 tsp minced garlic (optional, omit for Japchae)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare one bunch of fresh, vibrant spinach. The roots are nutritious, so trim minimally, just removing any yellow or wilted leaves.
Step 2
Trim the root ends of the prepared spinach and wash it thoroughly under running water, ensuring no dirt remains, especially around the roots.
Step 3
While washing the spinach, bring a generous pot of water to a rolling boil. Using plenty of water ensures the spinach cooks evenly.
Step 4
Once the water is boiling vigorously, add 1 teaspoon of coarse salt and then add all the spinach at once. Adding salt helps maintain the spinach’s vibrant green color and crisp texture.
Step 5
After adding the spinach, gently toss it with chopsticks or a fork to ensure even cooking. Blanch it very briefly, just until the leaves wilt and soften slightly (about 30 seconds to 1 minute). Overcooking will make it mushy and destroy nutrients.
Step 6
Immediately drain the blanched spinach and rinse it under cold running water 2-3 times to cool it down. This preserves its crisp texture and prevents it from becoming too soft. Squeeze out excess water firmly with your hands, then chop into bite-sized pieces or place directly into a bowl.
Step 7
In the bowl with the spinach, add the seasoning ingredients and gently mix. Combine 1/2 tsp fine salt, 1/2 tsp minced garlic (optional), 1 Tbsp sesame oil, and 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds. Gently massage the ingredients into the spinach with your hands until well combined. The key is to evenly distribute the seasoning without mashing the spinach.
Step 8
If you are preparing this spinach as an ingredient for Japchae (Korean glass noodle stir-fry), it’s best to omit the minced garlic to let the flavors of the Japchae shine.
Step 9
Transfer the seasoned spinach to a container or a serving dish. And there you have it – delicious seasoned spinach! Feel free to add a little extra sesame oil or seeds for enhanced flavor. This healthy and tasty spinach side dish is surprisingly easy to make and always a delightful addition to any meal. Enjoy!
