A Culinary Gem: Embrace the Simplicity of Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul)

This exploration of Sigeumchi Namul (Korean Spinach Side Dish) has hopefully sparked your interest in incorporating this culinary gem into your meals. Remember, Korean cuisine thrives on the concept of "banchan" (side dishes), offering a delightful and diverse array of flavors to complement your main course. Sigeumchi Namul exemplifies this philosophy perfectly, showcasing the beauty of simple ingredients transformed into a flavorful and refreshing accompaniment.










Recipe: Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul)
Serving Size: 4 servings

 

Ingredients:

  • 450g (1 lb) spinach
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds, toasted
  • Salt, to taste
  • Optional: red pepper flakes, for a spicy kick

 

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Spinach: Wash the spinach thoroughly and trim any tough stems.
  2. Blanch the Spinach: Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the spinach for 1-2 minutes, until wilted but still vibrant green. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
  3. Squeeze Out Excess Water: Using your hands, gently squeeze out excess water from the spinach.
  4. Season the Spinach: In a large bowl, combine the blanched spinach, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, sesame seeds, and salt. Toss well to coat the spinach evenly with the seasoning.
  5. Serve: Transfer the seasoned spinach to a serving dish and garnish with additional sesame seeds and red pepper flakes if desired.



 

Tips:

  • Variations: Feel free to customize this dish with your favorite seasonings such as ginger, green onions, or even a splash of rice vinegar for a tangy twist.
  • Substitutes: Swap out the sesame oil for olive oil or avocado oil if preferred. For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce.

 

With its irresistible combination of freshness and flavor, Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul) is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. I hope you enjoy making and savoring this delightful Korean dish as much as I do. Don't forget to share your own versions and creative twists – I'd love to hear from you!

Follow me on Instagram @CookWithJuyea for more easy and delicious recipes!




Keywords: Korean side dish, spinach side dish, sigeumchi namul, vegan, gluten-free, healthy side dish



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