Gomae (Japanese spinach and sesame salad)

Step 1

Put the sesame seeds in a small pan and turn the heat to low. Keep stirring the seeds until they become golden – about 6 to 7 minutes.

Step 2

Turn the heat off and put the seeds in a sesame seed grinder or mortar and pestle. Grind the seeds into a bowl and add the soy sauce, sugar, dashi powder, and water. Stir and set aside.

Step 3

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

Step 4

Meanwhile, fill a medium to large bowl with ice and cold water. Set aside.

Step 5

Add the spinach and boil for 1 minute and drain.

Step 6

Transfer the spinach to the bowl with ice and leave for a few minutes, until the spinach is cold.

Step 7

Drain the spinach and using your hands, take a chunk of spinach and squeeze as much excess water as you can. Place the spinach on a cutting board and repeat with the remaining spinach.

Step 8

Cut the spinach into 2-inch long pieces and transfer it to a mixing bowl.

Step 9

Add the sesame sauce on top and using chopsticks, toss until the spinach is evenly coated with the sauce. Serve.