Spinach Gomaae
A nutty, savory-sweet sesame dressing coats spinach in this Japanese dish, horenso no gomaae. It comprises four impactful ingredients that taste especially great with a bowl of white rice or as part of a breakfast spread with soup and salmon. Gomaae, pronounced go-MAH-ae, means sesame sauce and is more than just a recipe: Toasted sesame seeds, ground to a tan powder and simply mixed with soy sauce and sugar, are an excellent flavor canvas for spinach and beyond. You can swap in any vegetable, really, but sprightly, crunchy ones like lightly boiled green beans, sugar snap peas and broccoli shine with this application.
- Preparation:
- Cooking:
- Total:
- Serves: 4 persons
Ingredients
- 3tablespoons toasted white sesame seeds (see Tip)
- 1tablespoon soy sauce
- 2teaspoons sugar
- 1bunch mature spinach (8 to 10 ounces), ends trimmed
Instructions
Step 1
In a spice grinder or mortar, grind the toasted sesame seeds into a coarse powder. Or, crush the seeds with a heavy pot or skillet on a cutting board. Add to a medium bowl along with the soy sauce and sugar. Stir to combine.Step 2
Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a kettle or saucepan. Wash and drain the spinach in a colander. With the colander in the sink, carefully pour the boiled water over the spinach to wilt it. Drain, then transfer the spinach to a clean kitchen towel and wring out any excess water or simply press with a spoon to expel water.Step 3
Add the spinach to the bowl with the sauce and toss to combine. Serve at room temperature or chilled.