Side DishAppetizerSalad

Gomae (Japanese Spinach Salad with Sesame Dressing)

Name: Gomae (Japanese Spinach Salad with Sesame Dressing)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: japanese
Ingredients: 250 g spinach fresh; 3 tbsp toasted sesame seed; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp granulated sugar; 1 tbsp mirin; 1 tsp toasted sesame seed (optional)

A classic Japanese side dish featuring blanched spinach tossed in a sweet and savory nutty sesame dressing. This simple, elegant salad comes together quickly and provides a wonderful contrast of textures and flavors.

An original recipe by Forkin

Total time: 15 min
Serves: 4
Difficulty: Easy
Per serving: 114 kcal

Vegetarian

Allergen information: may contain gluten, sesame, and soy. Always check ingredient packaging if you have an allergy.

Mise en place

Ingredients

250 gspinach, fresh

dressing

3 tbsptoasted sesame seed
2 tbspsoy sauce
1 tbspgranulated sugar
1 tbspmirin

garnish

1 tsptoasted sesame seed(optional)

Equipment

bowl · pot · colander · cutting board · knife · mortar and pestle

The method

Step by step

1
Prepare the dressing by grinding the main portion of toasted sesame seeds in a mortar and pestle or spice grinder until a coarse paste forms.
About 3 min
Cook’s note: For a deeper flavor, ensure your sesame seeds are well-toasted and fragrant before grinding.
2
In a small bowl, mix the ground sesame with the soy sauce, sugar, and mirin to create the dressing. Set aside.
About 1 min
3
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and prepare a separate large bowl of ice water.
About 3 min
4
Wash the spinach thoroughly, then add it to the boiling water and blanch for about 60 seconds until wilted but still vibrant green.
About 1 min
Cook’s note: Do not overcook the spinach or it will become mushy.
5
Using a slotted spoon or strainer, immediately transfer the spinach to the ice water bath to stop the cooking process.
About 1 min
Cook’s note: This 'shocking' step helps the spinach retain its bright green color.
6
Once cool, drain the spinach and squeeze out as much excess water as possible by hand.
About 2 min
Cook’s note: Removing water is crucial for the dressing to adhere properly and not become diluted.
7
Place the squeezed spinach on a cutting board and chop into bite-sized sections, about 3-4 cm long.
About 1 min
8
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach and the prepared sesame dressing, tossing gently to coat everything evenly.
About 1 min
9
Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with the remaining toasted sesame seeds, if using.

Per serving

Nutrition

64%Score

Calories: 113.6kcal
Protein: 4.5g
Carbs: 10.9g
Fat: 6.5g
Fibre: 2.9g
Sugar: 5.5g

Estimated from the recipe’s ingredient quantities. Values can vary with brands and substitutions.

Keep it good

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Serve chilled or at room temperature; do not reheat.