Recipe: Sesame Spinach Salad (Korean)

Korean Sesame Spinach Salad

Shigumchi Namul

Koreans lightly cook many of their vegetables, then mix them with a simple soy and sesame dressing, to be served at room temperature or cold. This recipe makes a small amount compared to Western standards, but keep in mind that Koreans serve several namul, or vegetable side dishes, at the same time. This dish, with some Golden Mandu (Korean Dumplings), and a bean sprout or watercress salad, makes a refreshing light meal.

Serves 2 to 4

1 pound fresh spinach
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon sugar
1 clove garlic, minced
2 teaspoons toasted sesame seed
Dash crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Wash the spinach well and remove the tough stems. Cook the spinach until just barely wilted and still tender, either by steaming or blanching. Drain and squeeze the liquid from the spinach with your hands, or place the spinach in a sieve and press with the back of a spoon. Roughly chop the spinach. Mix the remaining ingredients together then toss with the spinach. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

Recipes:

Other Links (includes more recipes):

Global Destinations: Korea

Korean Spring Picnic

Korean Beef on Fiery Chinese Cabbage

October 1999 Itinerary...
Kate's Virtual Journey: A Progressive Feast

10/02/99 Japan: Nimble Nibbling
10/09/99 Korea: Mad About the Mandu
10/16/99 Vietnam: From Moon Cakes to Pancakes
10/23/99 Thailand: The Monkey Feast
10/30/99 China: Festival of the Hungry Ghosts

About Kate's Virtual World Tour: A Progressive Feast
From September 1999 to January 2000, this progressive banquet begins with Appetizers in Asia, continues with multiple courses across India, the Middle East, and North Africa, and around Christmas, crosses over to Europe for Desserts in Deutschland. Recipes, country backgrounds, local attractions, and special travel tips make each stop vivid and exciting, as if you were right there, experiencing the journey yourself. These world tour specialties and authentic recipes will inspire you to create your own unique and festive holiday tables, fit for kings and queens. No passport needed, just a fork, a stove and a hearty appetite!

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