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Spinach with Ground Sesame

Author Tadashi Ono, Harris Salat
Source Japanese Cult Classics (p. 169)
Added by Josh
Yield Serves 4
Date added 2 Jun 2026

Ingredients

  • 1 pound fresh spinach, washed well, ends trimmed
  • 2/3 cup sesame seed
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil

Instructions

  1. Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil over high heat.

  2. Blanch the spinach for about 30 seconds until bright green.

  3. Drain in a colander under cold running water for about 1 minute.

  4. Squeeze the spinach into a ball to remove excess water and set aside.

  5. Place sesame seeds in a food processor with a metal blade.

  6. Pulse for about 1 minute until they reach the consistency of cornmeal (do not grind too fine).

  7. In a large bowl, mix the ground sesame seeds, sugar, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Add the spinach and gently toss until evenly coated. Transfer to a platter and serve.

Notes

  • Japanese home-cooking standard and an ideal match to grilled dishes.
  • Grind sesame seeds using a food processor or a dedicated sesame-seed hand grinder.
  • Variation: This sesame dressing also pairs well with asparagus, green beans, any kind of leafy cooked green, broccoli, cauliflower, and fiddlehead fern.
  • If you intend to use for leftovers or lunches, refridgerate the spinach and sesame mixture separately. Combine just before eating.