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Sigeumchi-namul is a celebrated staple in Korean cuisine, known for its vibrant green color and delightful flavor profile. This simple yet nutritious dish is made primarily from fresh spinach, seasoned to perfection, and served as a banchan, or side dish, in traditional Korean meals. In Korea, meals are often accompanied by an array of banchan, allowing diners to enjoy a variety of flavors and textures in one sitting. These small plates are essential to the dining experience, showcasing the cultural emphasis on balance, harmony, and sharing in Korean dining.

Authentic Korean Spinach Side Dish

Explore the vibrant flavors of Sigeumchi-namul, a classic Korean spinach side dish that is both simple and nutritious. Made from fresh spinach and seasoned to perfection, this dish brings a delightful balance to any meal. Discover its health benefits, key ingredients like soy sauce and sesame oil, and easy preparation steps. Sigeumchi-namul not only adds a burst of color to your plate but also connects you to the rich heritage of Korean cuisine. Try this delicious side today!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound (450g) fresh spinach (baby spinach preferred)

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 tablespoon minced garlic

1 tablespoon sesame seeds (toasted)

1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

Salt (to taste)

1-2 green onions, chopped (optional)

Chili flakes (gochugaru) for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Spinach: Rinse the spinach thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and the spinach. Blanch for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until the spinach is vibrant and wilted.

    Cool the Spinach: Immediately transfer the blanched spinach to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This also helps to keep the color bright. After a few minutes, drain the spinach and gently squeeze out any excess water.

      Season the Spinach: In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, sesame seeds, and sugar (if using). Adjust the seasoning based on your taste; you might want to add a pinch of salt.

        Combine: Add the squeezed spinach to the bowl with the sauce mixture. Using your hands, gently mix everything together until the spinach is evenly coated.

          Garnish: If desired, sprinkle the chopped green onions and chili flakes on top for added flavor and color.

            Serve: This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it the perfect side dish for any Korean meal. Enjoy it alongside rice or as part of a banchan spread.

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4