Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul)

Super easy and flavorful, the Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul) is a delightful addition to any meal. This vibrant salad takes less than five minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Loaded with fresh flavors from garlic and sesame oil, it’s an excellent way to enjoy more vegetables in your diet. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as part of a traditional Korean feast, and watch it steal the show!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish can be made in under 5 minutes, perfect for a last-minute side.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic and toasted sesame oil creates a mouthwatering taste.
• Nutritious: Packed with vitamins and minerals from spinach, it’s a healthy choice for any meal.
• Versatile Dish: It pairs well with a variety of main courses, enhancing your dining experience.
• Cultural Experience: Enjoying this Korean dish brings a touch of authentic cuisine to your table.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul) efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pot
• Ice bath bowl
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Pot: A pot is crucial for blanching the spinach quickly while retaining its vibrant color.
• Ice bath bowl: This tool cools the spinach rapidly after blanching, preserving its texture and nutrients.
• Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly for even flavor distribution.

Ingredients

Fresh Ingredients

• 1 bunch (10 oz) spinach (ends trimmed)
• 1 clove garlic (finely minced)
• 1 stalk green onion (chopped)

Seasonings

• 2 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• 2 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

How to Make Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul)

Step 1: Trim the Spinach

Place the spinach on a cutting board. Trim the ends and slice it into approximately 2-inch pieces.

Step 2: Blanch the Spinach

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the spinach and blanch for about 30 seconds or until just wilted.

Step 3: Cool in an Ice Bath

Transfer the blanched spinach into an ice bath immediately. This step cools it quickly. Gently squeeze out any excess water afterward.

Step 4: Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled spinach with minced garlic, chopped green onion, soy sauce, salt, toasted sesame oil, and sesame seeds. Mix everything until well combined.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Plate your flavorful Korean spinach side dish and serve it as an accompaniment. Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul)

This Korean spinach side dish is versatile and can complement many meals. Its fresh flavors enhance a variety of dishes, making it a great addition to any table.

As Part of a Korean BBQ Meal

• Pair with grilled meats like beef or chicken for a balanced meal that highlights the umami flavors of both dishes.

With Rice

• Serve alongside steamed rice to create a wholesome and filling meal. The spinach adds a nutritious touch to your rice bowl.

In a Salad

• Incorporate it into a larger salad mix. Add other vegetables like cucumbers or carrots for extra crunch and flavor.

With Noodles

• Toss it with cold noodles for a refreshing summer dish. The sesame oil complements the noodles beautifully.

As a Snack

• Enjoy it as a healthy snack between meals. This dish is light yet satisfying, perfect for midday cravings.

How to Perfect Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul)

To make this Korean spinach side dish truly shine, follow these simple tips.

• Use fresh spinach: Fresh spinach will provide the best flavor and texture. Look for vibrant green leaves without wilting.

• Don’t over-blanch: Blanching for too long can result in mushy spinach. Aim for just 30 seconds to keep it crisp.

• Cool quickly: An ice bath not only stops the cooking but also helps maintain the bright green color of the spinach.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust soy sauce or salt as needed. Personal preferences play an important role in flavor.

• Add more toppings: Experiment with additional toppings such as sliced radishes or chili flakes to enhance the dish’s complexity.

Best Side Dishes for Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul)

Korean spinach side dish pairs well with various other dishes, creating delightful meals. Consider these options:

1. Kimchi: This fermented vegetable dish adds tanginess and spice, balancing out the mild flavors of Sigeumchi Namul.

2. Korean Potato Salad: Creamy and sweet, this salad contrasts nicely with the freshness of the spinach side dish.

3. Spicy Cucumber Salad: Crunchy cucumbers marinated in chili sauce offer a refreshing kick that complements Sigeumchi Namul well.

4. Grilled Chicken Thighs: Juicy and flavorful, grilled chicken thighs make for a hearty main course alongside this vegetable side.

5. Egg Fried Rice: A savory fried rice loaded with eggs provides substance and pairs perfectly with lighter vegetable dishes.

6. Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli brings additional color and health benefits to your meal plate.

7. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These sweet bites add depth, sweetness, and color when served alongside Korean spinach side dish.

8. Marinated Tofu: A protein-rich option that soaks up flavors well, marinated tofu pairs seamlessly with this vibrant side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking the Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul) can be quick and easy, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the spinach: Blanching for too long will make spinach mushy. Aim for just 30 seconds to retain its vibrant color and nutrients.
• Not cooling properly: Skipping the ice bath can lead to limp spinach. Always cool it down immediately to maintain texture.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: The soy sauce can be too salty for some. Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving to suit your preference.
• Using unwashed spinach: Failing to wash the spinach can lead to grit in your dish. Rinse thoroughly to ensure a clean and enjoyable side dish.
• Neglecting sesame oil: Omitting toasted sesame oil removes essential flavor. Always include it for that authentic taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the spinach is fully cooled before sealing.

Freezing Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul)

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Portion into smaller servings for easy defrosting.

Reheating Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul)

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil; heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over low heat for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this delicious Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul).

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just thaw and squeeze out excess water before mixing with other ingredients.

What can I serve with Sigeumchi Namul?

This dish pairs well with rice, grilled meats, or other Korean banchan (side dishes) like kimchi.

Is Sigeumchi Namul healthy?

Absolutely! It’s low in calories, packed with vitamins, and makes a great nutritious addition to any meal.

How long does Sigeumchi Namul last in the fridge?

It lasts up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

The Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul) is not only quick and easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding other vegetables or adjusting seasonings according to your taste. Give this refreshing side dish a try at your next meal!

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Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul)

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 7 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Experience the vibrant flavors of the Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul), a delightful addition to any meal. This quick and easy recipe takes less than five minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. The combination of fresh spinach, garlic, and toasted sesame oil creates a mouthwatering dish that is as nutritious as it is delicious. Packed with vitamins and minerals, this colorful salad enhances your dining experience, whether served alongside grilled meats or enjoyed as part of a traditional Korean feast. Elevate your table with this refreshing side that’s sure to impress!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 bunch (10 oz) fresh spinach
• 1 clove garlic (finely minced)
• 1 stalk green onion (chopped)
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds

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Instructions

1. Trim the ends of the spinach and slice it into approximately 2-inch pieces.
2. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, then add the spinach and blanch for about 30 seconds until just wilted.
3. Transfer the blanched spinach immediately into an ice bath to cool quickly; gently squeeze out excess water.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled spinach with minced garlic, chopped green onion, soy sauce, salt, toasted sesame oil, and sesame seeds. Mix well.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature as a flavorful side dish.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Blanching
• Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 80
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 0mg