Minji's Table

Korean Seasoned Spinach

Sigeumchi Namul

시금치나물

Blanched spinach seasoned with garlic and a light savory finish.

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Sigeumchi Namul, korean seasoned spinach with sesame seeds and garlic
Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
5 min
Total Time
15 min
Servings
3
Difficulty
Easy
Spice Level
Non-spicy
Accessibility
Everyday Ingredients

What is Sigeumchi Namul?

Sigeumchi Namul (시금치나물) is blanched spinach seasoned with garlic and a light savory finish.

This home-cooking version uses measured ingredients and straightforward stovetop steps so international cooks can understand what each ingredient contributes.

On the Korean Table

Background

Sigeumchi namul is a seasoned spinach banchan from the broad namul tradition of preparing vegetables with restrained aromatics. Brief blanching and squeezing preserve color without leaving water in the dish.

When and for Whom

It is common at everyday family tables, in restaurant banchan, and in lunchboxes. Its soft texture and non-spicy seasoning make it suitable for many children and adults.

What to Serve With It

Serve a small portion with rice, soup, kimchi, and a meat, fish, tofu, or egg dish. It is also a familiar component of bibimbap, though it works independently as a simple green vegetable side.

Ingredients

You Need

  • Spinachwashed 10 oz
  • Waterfor blanching; plus additional cold process water for cooling 6 cups
  • Salt 0.5 tsp
  • Garlicminced 1 clove
  • Soy Sauce 1 tsp

Nice to Have

  • Sesame Oil 1 tsp
  • Sesame Seeds 1 tsp

Ingredient Substitute Guides

Sesame Oil Substitutes for Korean Cooking

Toasted sesame oil is mainly a fragrant finishing seasoning in many Korean dishes, not simply a frying fat. Omit it first when optional; other oils replace function or offer a different flavor, never the same aroma.

Compare Sesame Oil substitutes →

Sesame Seed Substitutes for Korean Cooking

This guide applies only when sesame seeds are an optional finishing garnish. Omission is the best option; it does not apply when ground sesame supplies flavor, texture, or body to a sauce or dressing.

Compare Sesame Seeds substitutes →

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Blanch the spinach

    Bring the measured 6 cups water to a boil and blanch the spinach just until wilted.

  2. Step 2

    Cool and squeeze the spinach

    Transfer immediately to additional cold process water, which is separate from the measured blanching water, then squeeze gently to remove excess moisture.

  3. Step 3

    Cut the spinach

    Cut the spinach into manageable lengths.

  4. Step 4

    Season and add optional sesame

    Season with salt, garlic, and soy sauce. Add the sesame oil and sesame seeds if using, then mix gently by hand.

Storage

Cool leftovers promptly, refrigerate in a covered container, and reheat only the portion you plan to eat. Texture is best when served fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Sigeumchi Namul spicy?

This version is not spicy; black pepper or optional garnishes do not add chile heat.

Can I prepare the ingredients ahead?

Yes. Wash and cut the ingredients ahead, keep them refrigerated, and begin the cooking steps close to serving time for the best texture.