Spinach Goma-ae (Japanese-Style Spinach with Sesame Dressing) Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 Tbsp white sesame seeds
• 1/2 tsp sake
• 1/2 tsp mirin (Japanese rice wine)
• 1 1/2 Tbsp soy sauce
• 1 Tbsp sugar
• 1 lb spinach
• 1 tsp kosher salt

Directions:

1. In a small, dry frying pan over low heat, toast sesame seeds until they begin to pop and turn a light golden color. Reserve 1 tsp whole toasted seeds for garnish; coarsely grind the rest in a spice grinder, small food processor, or mortar and pestle.
2. Whisk together ground sesame seeds, sake, mirin, soy sauce, and sugar; set aside.
3. Fill a large bowl with ice water; set aside. Bring a large pot of water to boil. Add salt.
4. Working in batches, submerge a portion of the spinach in boiling water and cook for about 30 seconds. Remove and immediately plunge into ice water. Once cooled, drain and squeeze dry. Repeat with remaining spinach.
5. Toss blanched spinach with dressing. Plate as small mounds and garnish with reserved sesame seeds.
6. Cook’s Tip:
7. This sesame dressing also pairs well with blanched green beans.