Spinach and Peanut Side Dish
Sweet and Savory Spinach with Peanuts
The sweetness of winter spinach meets the nuttiness of peanuts for a delightful taste sensation. This simple yet delicious banchan is perfect for any meal.
Main Ingredients- Fresh Spinach 150g (about 1 bunch)
- Roasted Peanuts 1 handful (about 30-40g)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Carefully trim the roots of the fresh spinach and remove any yellowed leaves. Bring a pot of water to a boil with a pinch of salt. Blanch the spinach for just 30 seconds to 1 minute – avoid overcooking to maintain its texture. Immediately rinse the blanched spinach under cold water and gently squeeze out excess moisture. Cut the spinach into bite-sized pieces, about 4-5 cm long. Finely chop the roasted peanuts using a knife. If you have a nut allergy, you can substitute with walnuts or pine nuts.
Step 2
In a mixing bowl, combine the cut spinach and the finely chopped peanuts. Add the fish sauce (or Korean soy sauce for soup) for umami, sesame seeds (or ground sesame) for nuttiness, and sesame oil for aroma. You can adjust the amount of seasoning to your preference for a perfectly balanced flavor.
Step 3
Gently toss and mix the spinach and peanuts with the seasonings using your hands. Be careful not to mash the spinach; mix gently until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Transfer the seasoned spinach to a serving dish. This quick and easy side dish is a wonderful accompaniment to a warm bowl of rice.
