Super Simple Spinach Namul: Crisp and Refreshing!
Super Simple Spinach Namul: Crisp and Refreshing!
Making Healthy and Delicious Seasoned Spinach
This is a super simple seasoned spinach recipe that anyone can easily make at home. It boasts a crisp texture and fresh flavor, making it a perfect side dish. It’s also packed with nutrients, so the whole family will love it. You can create a wonderful seasoned spinach with just a few simple seasonings.
Main Ingredients- 1 bunch fresh spinach (approx. 300g)
- 1/2 Tbsp salt (for blanching spinach)
Seasoning Ingredients- 1-2 Tbsp soy sauce or Korean soup soy sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic (add a little more if you like a stronger garlic flavor)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil (adds a nutty aroma)
- A pinch of sesame seeds (for nuttiness and texture)
- 1-2 Tbsp soy sauce or Korean soup soy sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic (add a little more if you like a stronger garlic flavor)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil (adds a nutty aroma)
- A pinch of sesame seeds (for nuttiness and texture)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Trim the roots of the spinach by cutting off any dirty or rough parts. It’s good to wash the roots thoroughly as they contain the spinach’s natural sweetness. Rinse the spinach multiple times under cold running water to ensure all dirt and grit are completely removed from between the leaves.
Step 2
Fill a large pot with plenty of water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Once the water is boiling, add 1/2 Tbsp of salt. Adding salt at this stage helps to maintain the vibrant green color of the spinach and contributes to its crisp texture.
Step 3
Carefully add the prepared spinach to the boiling water, starting with the root ends, and blanch for just about 30 seconds. Spinach can become mushy and lose nutrients if overcooked, so it’s crucial to blanch it only until it wilts. As soon as the spinach turns a bright green, get ready to remove it.
Step 4
Immediately transfer the blanched spinach to a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. This step enhances the crispness of the spinach and helps rinse away any residual impurities. Squeeze out as much water as possible with your hands. Then, cut the spinach in half with a knife into bite-sized pieces. Cutting it too small might reduce the enjoyable texture.
Step 5
In a bowl with the squeezed spinach, add all the seasoning ingredients. This includes 1/2 Tbsp of minced garlic, 1-2 Tbsp of soy sauce or Korean soup soy sauce (adjust the amount based on the spinach quantity and your preference), 1 Tbsp of fragrant sesame oil, and a good pinch of sesame seeds. Gently mix everything together with your hands until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Your delicious seasoned spinach is ready!
