Goma-Ae

Goma-Ae Recipe: A Delicious Vegetarian Dish from Japan

Region / culture: Japan | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Goma-Ae is a traditional Japanese dish that features fresh spinach tossed in a flavorful sesame dressing. This dish is not only delicious, but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy addition to any meal.

History

Goma-Ae has been a popular dish in Japan for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the Kansai region of Japan, where sesame seeds are commonly used in cooking. The dish has since spread throughout the country and is now enjoyed by people all over the world.

Ingredients

2 large bunches of fresh spinach, washed thoroughly and stems removed
toasted sesame seeds

For the dressing

0.25 cup sake
0.5 cup toasted sesame seeds
4 tsp liquid sweetener (brown rice syrup is best)
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tsp rice vinegar
water to thin, if necessary

How to prepare

First, steam the spinach until it is just wilted.
Remove from heat and rinse it under cold water to refresh.
Chop the spinach into one-inch thick strips and place them in a bowl.
For the dressing, heat the sake until it reaches a boiling point (to simmer off the alcohol), and set it aside.
In your blender or food processor, grind the sesame seeds until they form a paste.
Then, add the sake and all other ingredients to the blender or food processor and process until smooth.
Stir this mixture into the steamed and chopped spinach.
Next, portion out the spinach into four small bowls.
Sprinkle each bowl with extra sesame seeds.
Chill the bowls of spinach until they are ready to be served.

Variations

You can add other vegetables, such as blanched green beans or snow peas, to the dish for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When steaming the spinach, be sure not to overcook it. The spinach should be just wilted, as overcooking can cause it to become mushy.

Toasting the sesame seeds before grinding them will enhance their flavor and aroma, giving the dressing a rich and nutty taste.

If the dressing is too thick, you can thin it out with a little water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Goma-Ae can be served as a side dish or as a main course. It pairs well with steamed rice and grilled fish or tofu.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming the spinach until just wilted helps to retain its vibrant green color and crisp texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have sake, you can use mirin or dry white wine as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dressing and steam the spinach ahead of time, then assemble the dish just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and a drizzle of sesame oil for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Goma-Ae pairs well with a variety of Japanese dishes, such as teriyaki chicken or sushi.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave the dish until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 180 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 12g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 10g per serving

Saturated Fat: 1g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 6g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 150% DV

Vitamin C: 50% DV

Iron: 15% DV

Alergens

Contains soy and sesame seeds.

Summary

Goma-Ae is a nutrient-dense dish that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. It is a great source of protein and fiber, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option.

Summary

Goma-Ae is a simple yet flavorful dish that showcases the natural sweetness of fresh spinach and the nutty richness of sesame seeds. With its nutrient-dense ingredients and delicious taste, it is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Goma-Ae. It was during one of my many travels to Japan, a country that has always held a special place in my heart. I had been wandering through the bustling streets of Tokyo, taking in all the sights and sounds of this vibrant city. As I passed by a small, hole-in-the-wall restaurant, the aroma of sesame seeds wafted through the air and beckoned me inside.

I found myself seated at a cozy table in the corner, surrounded by locals enjoying their lunch. The menu was all in Japanese, but with a little help from the kind waitress, I managed to order a few dishes that caught my eye. One of them was Goma-Ae, a traditional Japanese dish made with blanched vegetables and a sesame dressing.

As soon as the dish arrived at my table, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special. The vibrant green vegetables were perfectly cooked and still had a satisfying crunch to them. The sesame dressing was a revelation - nutty, creamy, and slightly sweet all at once. I savored every bite, letting the flavors dance across my palate.

After finishing my meal, I couldn't resist asking the waitress for the recipe. She smiled warmly and led me back to the kitchen, where the chef graciously shared his secrets with me. He showed me how to toast the sesame seeds just right, how to blend them into a smooth paste with soy sauce and sugar, and how to toss the dressing with the blanched vegetables to create a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.

I left the restaurant that day feeling inspired and determined to recreate the dish in my own kitchen. Back home, I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work, following the chef's instructions to the letter. The familiar scent of toasted sesame seeds filled the air, transporting me back to that cozy restaurant in Tokyo.

When I took my first bite of the homemade Goma-Ae, I felt a rush of nostalgia and satisfaction wash over me. The dish tasted just as I remembered it - rich, savory, and utterly delicious. I couldn't believe that I had managed to capture the essence of that moment in Japan right in my own home.

Over the years, I have made Goma-Ae countless times, each time tweaking the recipe just a bit to suit my taste. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all been impressed by its simple yet bold flavors. It has become a staple in my repertoire, a dish that never fails to bring a smile to my face and warmth to my heart.

As I look back on that fateful day in Tokyo, I can't help but feel grateful for the serendipitous encounter that led me to discover this wonderful recipe. It serves as a reminder of the power of food to connect us to different cultures and experiences, to evoke memories and emotions, and to bring joy and comfort to our lives.

So here's to Goma-Ae, a dish that will always hold a special place in my heart - a reminder of the day I stumbled upon a hidden gem in the bustling streets of Tokyo, and a testament to the beauty of culinary exploration and discovery.