Short Description
Goma-ae is a classic Japanese spinach salad dressed in a rich and nutty sesame sauce. This simple yet flavorful dish is a staple in Japanese cuisine, known for its delicate balance of sweetness and umami. It’s an easy and nutritious side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – This recipe requires only a few ingredients and minimal cooking time.
- Nutritious – Spinach is packed with vitamins and minerals, making this dish a healthy addition to any meal.
- Deliciously Unique – The sesame dressing offers a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the natural taste of spinach.
- Perfect Side Dish – Complements a variety of main dishes, from grilled meats to rice bowls.
- Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly – Naturally plant-based and easily adaptable to dietary needs.
Ingredients
- Fresh spinach
- White sesame seeds
- Soy sauce
- Mirin
- Sugar
- Dashi (optional)
- Salt
Directions
- Prepare the Spinach: Bring a pot of water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Blanch the spinach for about 30 seconds, then quickly transfer it to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
- Drain and Squeeze: Once cooled, drain the spinach and gently squeeze out excess water. Cut the spinach into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- Toast the Sesame Seeds: In a dry pan over low heat, toast the sesame seeds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
- Grind the Sesame Seeds: Using a mortar and pestle (or a spice grinder), grind the toasted sesame seeds until they become a coarse paste.
- Make the Dressing: In a bowl, mix the ground sesame seeds with soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and dashi (if using). Stir until well combined.
- Combine and Serve: Toss the spinach with the sesame dressing until evenly coated. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator before serving.
Variations
- Alternative Greens: Try using kale or bok choy for a different texture.
- Different Nuts/Seeds: Substitute sesame seeds with sunflower seeds or almonds for a unique twist.
- Sweeter Version: Increase the sugar or add a drizzle of honey.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of chili flakes or a bit of wasabi for extra heat.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 2-4 servings
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Best enjoyed cold or at room temperature; reheating is not necessary.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of spinach may become too mushy.
FAQs
How do I prevent the spinach from becoming too watery?
After blanching, ensure you squeeze out as much excess water as possible before mixing with the dressing.
Can I use pre-ground sesame seeds?
Yes, but toasting whole seeds and grinding them yourself enhances the flavor significantly.
What can I serve with Goma-ae?
It pairs well with rice, miso soup, grilled fish, or tempura.
Can I use black sesame seeds instead?
Yes! Black sesame seeds offer a stronger flavor and darker color.
Is this dish vegan?
Yes, as long as you use plant-based dashi or omit it entirely.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, but for best flavor, consume it within a day of preparation.
What’s the best way to grind sesame seeds?
A mortar and pestle is traditional, but a spice grinder works well too.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Fresh spinach is best, but if using frozen, thaw and drain thoroughly before use.
What can I use instead of mirin?
A mix of rice vinegar and a small amount of sugar can substitute for mirin.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
Conclusion
Japanese Spinach Salad (Goma-ae) is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that brings out the best in spinach with its nutty sesame dressing. Whether you serve it as a side dish or incorporate it into a larger meal, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it at home and enjoy a taste of Japan in your own kitchen!
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How to Make Japanese Spinach Salad (Goma-ae) at Home
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2–4 servings 1x
Description
“Make authentic Japanese Spinach Salad (Goma-ae) at home with this easy recipe! Blanched spinach tossed in a rich, nutty sesame dressing—healthy, vegan, and full of umami flavor. Perfect as a quick side dish!”
Ingredients
- 1 bunch fresh spinach
- 2 tbsp white sesame seeds
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp mirin (or rice vinegar + ½ tsp sugar)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tbsp dashi (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Spinach: Boil water with a pinch of salt. Blanch the spinach for 30 seconds, then transfer to an ice bath.
- Drain and Squeeze: Once cooled, drain the spinach and squeeze out excess water. Cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Toast the Sesame Seeds: Heat a dry pan on low and toast the sesame seeds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
- Grind the Sesame Seeds: Use a mortar and pestle (or spice grinder) to grind toasted sesame seeds into a coarse paste.
- Make the Dressing: In a bowl, mix the ground sesame seeds with soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and dashi (if using). Stir to combine.
- Combine and Serve: Toss the spinach with the sesame dressing until evenly coated. Serve immediately or chill before serving.
Notes
- Alternative Greens: Swap spinach for kale or bok choy.
- Different Nuts/Seeds: Use sunflower seeds or almonds instead of sesame.
- Sweeter Version: Add more sugar or a drizzle of honey.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute tamari for soy sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or wasabi.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Blanching
- Cuisine: Japanese-Inspired
Keywords: Goma-ae, Japanese spinach salad, sesame spinach, easy Japanese side dish, vegan Japanese recipe
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