Fresh and Crisp Spinach Namul (Seasoned Spinach)
Low-Calorie, Nutrient-Rich Spinach Namul: How to Blanch and Season for Vibrant Green Perfection
As spring arrives, a craving for fresh vegetable side dishes naturally arises. Did you know spinach is a remarkably low-calorie food? It’s packed with minerals and vitamins, making it a true nutritional powerhouse. Blanched spinach contains only about 20kcal per 100g, making it an excellent low-calorie side dish! We’ll share a simple yet delicious method to prepare this vibrant and crisp spinach namul, perfect for any meal.
Main Ingredients
- 200g fresh spinach
- 0.5 Tbsp coarse salt (for blanching)
Seasoning
- Salt or Korean soup soy sauce, to taste
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 0.5 Tbsp minced garlic
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Salt or Korean soup soy sauce, to taste
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 0.5 Tbsp minced garlic
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare the spinach. Remove any yellow or wilted leaves, and thoroughly clean the root ends to remove any dirt. You can trim the very ends of the roots slightly with a knife; this helps the seasoning penetrate better and makes them easier to eat.
Step 2
Rinse the cleaned spinach in cold water two to three times to ensure all dirt and grit are removed. Gently shake the spinach while rinsing, especially near the roots.
Step 3
Fill a pot with plenty of water for blanching and add the coarse salt. Adding salt to the boiling water helps to maintain the spinach’s vibrant green color and ensures a crisp texture.
Step 4
Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the prepared spinach and blanch over high heat for a short time. Spinach cooks very quickly, so aim for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Be careful not to overcook, as it can become mushy and lose its bright color.
Step 5
Immediately remove the blanched spinach from the hot water and plunge it into a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. This step is crucial for maintaining its crispness and vibrant green hue. Gently swish the spinach in the cold water.
Step 6
Squeeze out any excess water from the spinach and place it in a mixing bowl. Add all the seasoning ingredients (salt or Korean soup soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic) and gently mix with your hands until well combined. Adjust the seasoning to your preference. Finally, sprinkle with sesame seeds for a nutty aroma.
Step 7
Your delicious and healthy low-calorie spinach namul is ready! Enjoy the fresh, natural taste of this simple yet nutritious side dish.
