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Korean Spinach Salad 2 Ways

Korean Spinach Salad, also known as Sigeumchi Namul, is a simple yet flavorful dish that can be prepared in two different ways. This recipe offers both a traditional version with sesame oil and garlic, and a variation with a spicy gochujang dressing. Each version showcases the fresh flavors of spinach and is a perfect side dish or appetizer.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Korean
Servings 4 People
Calories 120 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large pot
  • 1 colander
  • 1 mixing bowl
  • 1 whisk
  • 1 knife
  • 1 cutting board

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz fresh spinach Used for both traditional and spicy versions.
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil Used in traditional version.
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced, used in traditional version.
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce Used in both versions.
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds Used for garnish in both versions.
  • to taste salt Used in both versions.
  • 1 tablespoon gochujang Korean chili paste, used in spicy version.
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar Used in spicy version.
  • 1 teaspoon honey Used in spicy version.

Instructions
 

  • Boil a large pot of water and add a pinch of salt.
  • Add the fresh spinach to the boiling water and blanch for about 2 minutes, until just wilted.
  • Remove the spinach and transfer to a colander to drain. Rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine sesame oil, minced garlic, soy sauce, and a pinch of salt for the traditional version.
  • Add the drained spinach to the mixing bowl and toss to combine.
  • Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving the traditional spinach salad.
  • In another mixing bowl, whisk together gochujang, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and a pinch of salt for the spicy version.
  • Add the drained spinach to the bowl with the spicy dressing and toss gently to coat.
  • Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving the spicy spinach salad.

Notes

Feel free to adjust the amount of gochujang based on your spice preference for the spicy version.
These salads can be made ahead of time and served chilled.
For additional flavor, consider adding other ingredients like finely chopped scallions or a squeeze of lemon juice.