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Sigeumchi-namul Korean Spinach Banchan

Sigeumchi-Namul: Korean Spinach Banchan


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5 from 5 reviews

  • Author: Shannon Lim
  • Total Time: 11 mins
  • Yield: Serves 2

Description

Korean Spinach Banchan, known as Sigeumchi Namul, is a traditional Korean side dish with fresh spinach quickly blanched, seasoned lightly with soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and garnished with toasted sesame seeds.


Ingredients

Scale

7 ounces (200 grams) fresh spinach (leaves and stems), roots removed

2 cloves garlic, minced finely

1 green onion, thinly sliced

1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)

1/2 tablespoon sesame oil

1/2 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

1 teaspoon sea salt (for blanching water)


Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Spinach

  • Remove any roots or tough stems from spinach.

  • Wash spinach thoroughly in cold water 2-3 times, removing all dirt and grit. Set aside.

Step 2: Mix Sauce Ingredients

  • In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, thinly sliced green onion, soy sauce (or tamari), and sesame oil. Stir well to combine flavors evenly. Set aside.

Step 3: Blanch the Spinach

  • Bring a medium-sized pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 teaspoon sea salt to the water.

  • Add spinach to boiling water and blanch quickly for exactly 30 seconds. Immediately remove spinach and drain.

Step 4: Shock and Drain Spinach

  • Rinse blanched spinach under cold running water to halt cooking. Repeat rinsing 3 times.

  • Gently but firmly squeeze excess water from spinach until it feels dry but remains soft.

Step 5: Season and Mix

  • Roughly chop spinach into bite-sized pieces, then place into the bowl containing the sauce.

  • Toss spinach gently by hand or with tongs, evenly coating it with the seasoning mixture.

Step 6: Serve

  • Transfer spinach to a serving plate or bowl.

  • Sprinkle evenly with toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

Be sure not to over-blanch spinach; 30 seconds is ideal to maintain vibrant color and texture.

Gently squeeze spinach; too much force will break the leaves.

Can be served chilled or at room temperature.

Store leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container up to 2-3 days.

  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 1 min
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Blanching
  • Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/2 Cup
  • Calories: 65
  • Sugar: 0.5g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 4.5g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 0g