Spinach Gomaae

Discover the subtle elegance of Japanese cuisine with Spinach Gomaae, a dish that combines simplicity and sophistication. This delightful recipe pairs tender spinach with a nutty sesame dressing, creating a balance of savory and sweet flavors.

Perfectly versatile, this dish is an ideal side for white rice, a hearty breakfast spread, or even as a light standalone snack. The toasted sesame sauce, rich in umami, elevates spinach to a new level of flavor, making it a staple in traditional Japanese meals.

With its quick preparation and adaptable nature, Spinach Gomaae invites you to explore its potential. Try it with green beans, broccoli, or snap peas for a fresh twist. Simple yet impactful, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again.

Spinach Gomaae Ingredients

• Toasted White Sesame Seeds: The heart of the dish, these seeds are transformed into a nutty, aromatic powder that forms the base of the rich, savory-sweet dressing.
• Soy Sauce: Adds a deep umami character, harmonizing with the sesame for a perfectly balanced flavor profile.
• Sugar: A touch of sweetness that elevates the savory notes and enhances the overall taste.
• Fresh Spinach: The vibrant star ingredient, providing a tender, earthy backdrop for the luscious sesame dressing.

Recipe Tips for Spinach Gomaae

1. Perfect Sesame Toasting: To enhance the nutty flavor of the sesame seeds, toast them evenly over medium-low heat. Stir frequently to prevent burning, and look for a light golden-brown color and a fragrant aroma to indicate they are ready.
2. Spinach Preparation: Opt for mature spinach for this dish, as its robust leaves hold up well to the sesame dressing. After wilting, thoroughly drain and press out excess water to prevent the dish from becoming soggy and to allow the flavors to cling better to the spinach.
3. Customize the Vegetables: While spinach is traditional, don’t hesitate to experiment with lightly boiled green beans, sugar snap peas, or even broccoli. These crunchy alternatives pair beautifully with the sesame sauce and add variety to your table.

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What to Serve with Spinach Gomaae

• Steamed White Rice: The subtle sweetness and fluffiness of steamed white rice create the perfect neutral base to soak up the savory-sweet sesame dressing of the spinach. It’s a classic pairing that completes a Japanese-inspired meal.
• Grilled Salmon: Rich and flaky grilled salmon provides a contrasting texture and complements the earthy spinach and nutty dressing with its buttery flavor. Together, they form a wholesome and balanced plate.
• Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup enhances the meal’s Japanese essence, offering a light, umami-rich broth that refreshes the palate between bites of the flavorful spinach dish.

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FAQ for Spinach Gomaae

1. Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?
Yes, but be sure to thaw and thoroughly squeeze out the excess water before combining it with the sesame dressing to avoid diluting the flavors.

2. What’s the best way to grind sesame seeds without a spice grinder?
You can use a mortar and pestle for a coarse grind or crush them with a heavy skillet on a cutting board. Both methods release the seeds’ rich oils and flavor.

3. How long does Spinach Gomaae keep?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this dish can stay fresh for up to two days. Serve it chilled or bring it to room temperature before eating.

4. Can I adjust the sweetness in the dressing?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the sugar to your taste or substitute it with a natural sweetener like honey or mirin for a slightly different flavor profile.

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Spinach Gomaae

A delectable Japanese dish, Spinach Gomaae features tender spinach coated in a nutty, savory-sweet sesame dressing. Known as horenso no gomaae, this recipe blends simple yet impactful ingredients to deliver a versatile and satisfying side dish. Often enjoyed with steamed rice or as part of a traditional Japanese breakfast alongside miso soup and salmon, Gomaae’s sesame-based sauce complements a variety of vegetables, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Cuisine Japanese

Servings 4 People

Ingredients

  

• 1 bunch of mature spinach 8 to 10 ounces, ends trimmed
• 3 tablespoons toasted white sesame seeds see tip below
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons sugar

Instructions

 

• Step 1Using a spice grinder or mortar, grind the toasted sesame seeds into a coarse powder. Alternatively, place the seeds on a cutting board and crush them with a heavy skillet or pot. Transfer the ground sesame seeds to a medium-sized bowl and mix them with soy sauce and sugar until well combined.
• Step 2In a kettle or saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Thoroughly wash and drain the spinach in a colander. Place the colander in the sink and carefully pour the boiling water over the spinach to wilt it. Allow the spinach to drain, then transfer it to a clean kitchen towel. Wring out excess moisture or press with a spoon to remove any remaining water.
• Step 3Add the wilted spinach to the bowl containing the sesame dressing. Gently toss until the spinach is evenly coated. Serve the dish chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

If you only have untoasted sesame seeds, heat them in a small skillet over medium-low heat. Shake the skillet occasionally to ensure even toasting. Once the seeds are light brown and emit a fragrant, nutty aroma, remove them from heat. This process takes approximately 5 minutes.

Keyword Spinach Gomaae