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

  1. 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.
  2. Drain and Squeeze: Once cooled, drain the spinach and gently squeeze out excess water. Cut the spinach into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
  3. Toast the Sesame Seeds: In a dry pan over low heat, toast the sesame seeds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
  4. Grind the Sesame Seeds: Using a mortar and pestle (or a spice grinder), grind the toasted sesame seeds until they become a coarse paste.
  5. Make the Dressing: In a bowl, mix the ground sesame seeds with soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and dashi (if using). Stir until well combined.
  6. 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!

Print
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How to Make Japanese Spinach Salad (Goma-ae) at Home


  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 24 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

Scale
  • 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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