Spicy & Sweet Gochujang Seasoned Spinach: Easy Recipe
Gochujang Spinach Seasoning: A Delicious Seasonal Side Dish
Instead of plain white seasoned greens, try this vibrant red Gochujang Spinach Seasoning that’s bursting with savory flavor. Spinach is wonderfully sweet and delicious right now, making it a perfect side dish for any meal. This recipe is simple yet delivers a deep, satisfying taste.
Ingredients
- 1 bunch fresh spinach
- 1/2 Tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 1 Tbsp maesilcheong (plum extract/syrup)
- 1 Tbsp fish sauce
- 1/2 Tbsp sugar
- 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp chopped green onion
- 2 pinches salt
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Let’s start by preparing the ingredients for your delicious Gochujang Spinach Seasoning.
Step 2
Wash the spinach thoroughly under running water and trim off the root ends. It’s important to wash it meticulously to remove any remaining soil.
Step 3
Discard any bruised or yellowed leaves, keeping only the fresh parts. Rinse the spinach once more under running water.
Step 4
Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil and add half a tablespoon of salt. This will help the spinach retain its vibrant green color and add a subtle seasoning.
Step 5
Add the prepared spinach to the boiling water and blanch for about 5 seconds. Then, flip it over and blanch for another 5 seconds. Overcooking will make it mushy, so a quick blanch is key to preserving a pleasant crispness.
Step 6
Remove the blanched spinach from the hot water and immediately rinse it under cold running water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. This helps maintain the spinach’s bright green color and refreshing crunch.
Step 7
Once rinsed, gather the spinach with both hands and squeeze out as much water as possible. Excess water can dilute the seasoning, so pressing firmly is crucial.
Step 8
Place the squeezed spinach in a bowl and add all the prepared seasoning ingredients: gochujang, gochugaru, maesilcheong, fish sauce, sugar, minced garlic, and chopped green onion.
Step 9
Gently separate the clumped spinach with your hands, ensuring the seasoning coats every strand evenly.
Step 10
Toss the spinach gently to distribute the seasoning thoroughly. Taste and add more salt if needed to achieve your desired flavor. Finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a drizzle of sesame oil for a wonderfully nutty aroma.
Step 11
Your delicious Gochujang Spinach Seasoning is ready! It’s the perfect side dish for a satisfying meal.
