spinach

This classic Japanese side dish highlights how a good dashi can completely transform simple ingredients. Using a high-quality dashi sachet brings a clean, layered umami that elevates the natural sweetness of spinach and the richness of nuts—without the need for heavy seasoning. Method 1. Toast a handful of walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat for about a minute, until fragrant. Roughly chop, then grind using a mortar and pestle until finely crushed. 2. In a bowl, combine the ground walnuts with dashi (prepared from a premium dashi sachet or liquid stock), sugar, mirin, and soy sauce. Mix until smooth. If the dressing is too thick, loosen it gradually with a little water or extra mirin until it reaches a creamy consistency. 3. Blanch the spinach briefly, then transfer ... Continue Reading