Perilla Seed Powder Spinach Tofu Salad
Nutty and Savory! Winter Spinach and Soft Tofu Salad with Perilla Seed Powder
This recipe uses delicious, in-season outdoor spinach that gets sweeter in the cold, combined with leftover tofu and nutty perilla seed powder to create a nutritious side dish. It’s a meal starter that’s truly irresistible!
Main Ingredients
- 1 bunch spinach
- 1/2 block firm tofu
- A little white part of green onion
Seasoning & Others
- 2-3 Tbsp perilla seed powder
- 1 tsp fine salt
- 1 Tbsp perilla oil
- 2-3 Tbsp perilla seed powder
- 1 tsp fine salt
- 1 Tbsp perilla oil
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Prepare one bunch of spinach, ensuring the roots are firm and fresh. Gently scrape off any dirt from the roots with the tip of a knife. Trim away any wilted or yellowed leaves for a cleaner, tastier dish.
Step 2
Bring water to a rolling boil and add 1 teaspoon of salt. Blanch the spinach for just 1-2 minutes. It’s important not to overcook it to preserve its nutrients and crisp texture.
Step 3
Immediately transfer the blanched spinach to cold water to cool it down. Split the root ends into 2-4 sections, then tear the spinach. Rinse it 2-3 times in cold water, shaking gently, and then squeeze out excess water thoroughly by hand. This step is crucial for proper seasoning and to prevent the dish from becoming watery.
Step 4
Finely mince a small amount of the white part of the green onion. This adds a lovely aroma, but you can omit it if you prefer.
Step 5
In a bowl, combine the squeezed spinach, half a block of tofu, 1 teaspoon of fine salt, and 1 tablespoon of perilla oil. Gently mix everything together, being careful not to mash the tofu.
Step 6
Next, add 2-3 tablespoons of perilla seed powder for an extra nutty flavor. Perilla oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for cardiovascular health, especially during the colder months. If you don’t have perilla oil, you can substitute it with sesame oil for a delicious result.
Step 7
The natural sweetness of the winter spinach, the creamy tofu, and the rich nuttiness of the perilla seed powder come together beautifully in this spinach and tofu salad. It’s the perfect side dish to enjoy with a bowl of rice, especially when you need a flavorful boost!
