Korean Spinach Namul (Sigeumchi Namul)

Ingredients

• 2 bags Spinach (about 300 g each, washed)
• 1 tablespoon Salt (for blanching water)
• 2 teaspoons Salt (for seasoning, adjust to taste)
• 2 teaspoons Sesame Oil (toasted sesame oil preferred)
• 2 teaspoons Minced Garlic (optional, fresh minced)
• 2 tablespoons Sesame Seeds (toasted if possible)
• 4 cups Ice Water (for shocking spinach)

Instructions

1. Boil Water with Salt

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

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: 100°C

2. Blanch the Spinach

   Add the washed spinach to the boiling water and blanch for exactly 10 seconds.

   Time: PT10S

   Temperature: 100°C

3. Shock in Ice Water

   Immediately transfer the blanched spinach to a bowl of ice water and let sit for 30 seconds.

   Time: PT30S

   Temperature: 0°C

4. Drain and Squeeze

   Drain the spinach in a colander and gently squeeze out excess water with clean kitchen towels or a salad spinner.

   Time: PT2M

5. Season and Mix

   In a large bowl combine the spinach with 2 teaspoons salt, 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil, 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds, and 2 teaspoons minced garlic (optional). Toss until evenly coated.

   Time: PT3M

6. Store

   Transfer the seasoned spinach to an airtight container and refrigerate. It keeps for up to 10 days.

   Time: PT1M

   Temperature: 4°C

Nutrition Facts

Calories

155

Protein

4 g

Carbohydrates

8 g

Fat

12 g

Fiber

4 g

Ingredient Substitutions

• Instead of Spinach: Swiss chard, Kale
• Instead of Sesame Oil: vegetable oil (less flavor)
• Instead of Minced Garlic: garlic powder (¼ tsp)
• Instead of Sesame Seeds: pumpkin seeds

Equipment Needed

• Large Pot
• Colander
• Large Bowl
• Spoon or Tongs
• Airtight Container
• Kitchen Towels or Salad Spinner (optional)

Critical Steps — Do Not Skip

• Blanch spinach for exactly 10 seconds
• Shock in ice water immediately to retain color and texture
• Season while spinach is still slightly warm for better flavor absorption

Chef Tips from the Video

• Use toasted sesame oil for a deeper nutty flavor
• Add a pinch of sugar to balance any bitterness from the spinach
• Garnish with an extra sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds just before serving

Troubleshooting

Storage

Refrigerator: Up to 10 days in an airtight container

Freezer: Not recommended – texture changes

Room temperature: Do not store at room temperature; perishable

Make-Ahead Tips

• Prepare the spinach a day ahead and store in the refrigerator
• Toast sesame seeds before mixing for extra nuttiness