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Delicious Dish

Japanese Spinach (Gomaae) Recipe

March 22, 2021|By Carolyn Cohen
Japanese Spinach (Gomaae) - recipe by Carolyn Cohen

This delicious spinach dressed in a sesame sauce is very popular in Japanese cuisine. The sweet-savoury sesame sauce is usually made with freshly ground sesame seeds. I am taking a shortcut and using tahini.

Ingredients

  • 1 large box/454 g or 2 small boxes baby
  • spinach
  • About 1 tbsp. salt for the water
  • 1 tbsp tahini
  • 2 tsp mirin
  • 2 tsp sugar
  • About 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds, plus more
  • for sprinkling
  • 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce or tamari

Instructions

  1. 1

    Fill a large pot with water and add about 1 tablespoon of salt, bring to a boil.

  2. 2

    Add the spinach in batches. Cook spinach for 1-2 minutes.

  3. 3

    Remove spinach from the pot and let cool on a towel. When cool enough to handle, squeeze all the water out of the spinach. Loosen up the leaves, set aside.

  4. 4

    In a large bowl, mix together the tahini, mirin, sugar, sesame seeds and soy sauce or tamari.

  5. 5

    Add the spinach and, using your fingers or chopsticks, move the spinach around, separating the leaves and clumps so that the dressing gets distributed everywhere.

  6. 6

    Make several loose clumps and serve clumped together in a small bowl.

  7. 7

    Sprinkle with more sesame seeds. Serves 4.

Tips & Storage

How to Store
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I Freeze This?
Most recipes freeze well for up to 3 months. Cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Make Ahead Tip
This recipe can be prepared in advance. Simply reheat when ready to serve.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Japanese Spinach (Gomaae)?

This Japanese Spinach (Gomaae) recipe by Carolyn Cohen includes step-by-step instructions that are easy to follow. You'll need 9 ingredients and the recipe is designed for home cooks of all skill levels.

What goes well with this japanese spinach (gomaae)?

This recipe pairs well with a variety of dishes. Try it as part of a complete meal with complementary sides, salads, or proteins.