Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul)

Name: Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 2 min
Total time: 7 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 1 bunch (10 oz) spinach; 1 clove garlic (minced); 1 stalk green onion (chopped); 2 teaspoons soy sauce; 1/8 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil; 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds

Published: January 13, 2026

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This Korean spinach side dish takes only five minutes from start to finish.
Packed with Flavor: The combination of garlic, sesame oil, and soy sauce creates a rich taste that enhances the spinach.
Healthy Choice: Low in calories yet high in nutrients, this dish is a great way to add greens to your diet.
Versatile Side Dish: Perfect alongside grilled meats or as part of a larger spread for special occasions.
Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday ingredients, it’s easy to whip up whenever you want a quick veggie boost.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul), you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Pot
Mixing bowl
Cutting board
Knife

Importance of Each Tool

Pot: A pot is essential for blanching the spinach quickly while preserving its color and nutritional value.
Mixing Bowl: A mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly for even flavor distribution.
Cutting Board: A cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables, ensuring safety while preparing your dish.
Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for efficiently mincing garlic and chopping green onions.

Ingredients

For the Spinach

1 bunch (10 oz) spinach (ends trimmed)
1 clove garlic (finely minced)
1 stalk green onion (chopped)

For the Seasoning

2 teaspoon soy sauce
1/8 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
2 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

How to Make Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul)

Step 1: Trim the Spinach

Start by placing the spinach on a cutting board. Trim the ends off and slice the spinach into about 2-inch pieces.

Step 2: Blanch the Spinach

Bring a pot filled with salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the trimmed spinach and blanch it for 30 seconds or until just wilted.

Step 3: Cool in an Ice Bath

After blanching, immediately transfer the spinach to an ice bath. This cooling process helps preserve its vibrant green color. Gently squeeze out any excess water from the spinach once it’s cool.

Step 4: Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled spinach with minced garlic, chopped green onion, soy sauce, salt, toasted sesame oil, and toasted sesame seeds. Mix everything until well combined.

Step 5: Serve

Serve this delightful Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul) as a side at your next meal and enjoy!

How to Serve Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul)

Korean Spinach Side Dish, or Sigeumchi Namul, is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal. Its fresh flavors and vibrant colors make it an appealing choice for various dining occasions.

Pair with Rice

Serve alongside steamed rice for a classic Korean meal. The spinach pairs well with the rice, making each bite flavorful.

Include in a Bibimbap

Add Sigeumchi Namul as one of the toppings in a bibimbap bowl. Its bright green color and taste enhance the overall dish.

Combine with Other Banchan

Offer this side dish along with other traditional banchan like pickled radish or seasoned cucumbers. This variety will delight your guests.

Use as a Salad Base

Create a refreshing salad by placing Sigeumchi Namul on a bed of mixed greens. Drizzle with extra sesame oil for added flavor.

Serve as a Snack

Enjoy the spinach side dish on its own as a healthy snack option. It’s light yet satisfying, perfect for mid-day cravings.

How to Perfect Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul)

To elevate your Sigeumchi Namul, consider these simple tips that enhance flavor and texture.

Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach leaves provide the best flavor and texture. Look for bright green, crisp leaves without any wilting.
Control Blanching Time: Blanching for just 30 seconds helps retain the vibrant color and nutrients. Overcooking may lead to mushy spinach.
Chill Thoroughly: An ice bath is essential for halting the cooking process. This step ensures your spinach remains crunchy and fresh.
Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to tweak the soy sauce or sesame oil according to your taste preferences. A little extra can make a big difference!
Experiment with Garnishes: Try adding toasted nuts or seeds for an additional crunch. You can also include red pepper flakes for some heat.

Best Side Dishes for Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul)

Sigeumchi Namul pairs wonderfully with various side dishes, enhancing your meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent options:

Kimchi: This fermented vegetable dish adds tangy flavor and probiotics to your meal.
Pickled Radish: Crunchy and slightly sweet, pickled radish balances out the savory notes of Sigeumchi Namul.
Tofu Stir-Fry: Lightly pan-fried tofu provides protein and complements the freshness of spinach.
Seasoned Cucumbers: These add a refreshing and crisp element that contrasts nicely with the cooked spinach.
Spicy Garlic Green Beans: Their spicy kick enhances the overall flavor profile of your meal.
Sweet Potato Noodles (Japchae): These chewy noodles provide a satisfying texture while being mildly sweet to balance flavors.
Grilled Chicken Thighs: Juicy grilled chicken offers hearty protein that rounds out your dining experience.
Steamed Broccoli: A simple yet nutritious option, steamed broccoli adds more veggies to your plate without overpowering flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul), be mindful of these common mistakes to enhance your cooking experience.

Boldly overcooking the spinach: Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture. Blanch the spinach for just 30 seconds to maintain its vibrant color and crispness.
Ignoring the ice bath: Skipping the ice bath may leave the spinach wilty. Quickly cooling it helps preserve its freshness and bright green color.
Under-seasoning: Not adding enough soy sauce or sesame oil can make the dish bland. Taste as you mix and adjust seasonings to your liking.
Skipping the sesame seeds: Omitting toasted sesame seeds eliminates a key flavor component. They add nuttiness and crunch, so don’t forget them!
Not chopping ingredients properly: Large pieces of garlic or green onion can overpower the dish. Ensure they are finely minced or chopped for a balanced flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul)

Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
Can be frozen for up to 1 month; however, texture may change upon thawing.

Reheating Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul)

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat for 30-second intervals until warm.
Stovetop: Heat in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making this delightful Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul).

Can I use frozen spinach instead?

Yes, frozen spinach can be used if fresh is unavailable. Thaw and drain excess water before mixing with other ingredients.

What can I serve with Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul)?

This dish pairs well with rice, grilled meats, or as part of a larger banchan spread.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free soy sauce, this Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul) can easily be made gluten-free!

How do I customize this dish?

Feel free to add other ingredients like sesame paste or chili flakes for extra flavor! Experiment with different vegetables too.

Final Thoughts

Korean Spinach Side Dish (Sigeumchi Namul) is not only easy to prepare but also brings vibrant flavors and appealing textures to your meal. With its versatility, you can customize it in numerous ways! Try this recipe today and bring a taste of Korea to your table!

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