Spinach ohitashi is a simple and refreshing Japanese side dish made from lightly boiled vegetables and seasoned with a dashi-based broth.

Ingredients

• 10 ounces (280g) fresh spinach
• 1 cup (240ml) dashi or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon mirin
• 1/2 teaspoon katsuobushi (bonito flakes) (optional)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

1. Wash and Blanch Spinach:
   Thoroughly wash the spinach under running water to remove any dirt or grit.
   Bring a pot of water to a boil.Gently submerge the spinach into the boiling water and blanch for just 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until the spinach wilts slightly but still retains its vibrant green color.Drain the spinach immediately and plunge it into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and preserve its bright color.
2. Prepare the Seasoning:
   In a small bowl, combine dashi or vegetable broth, soy sauce, and mirin.
3. Squeeze and Season Spinach:
   Once the spinach has cooled enough to handle, squeeze out excess water using your hands or a kitchen press.Transfer the squeezed spinach to a serving plate or bowl.
   Pour the prepared dashi-based seasoning over the spinach, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
4. Garnish and Serve (Optional):
   Sprinkle with katsuobushi (bonito flakes) and sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled fish, steamed rice, or other Japanese dishes.

Tips

• For a more intense flavor, blanch the spinach in a pot of salted water.
• Adjust the amount of soy sauce and mirin to your taste preference.
• If katsuobushi is unavailable, you can substitute with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a dash of nutritional yeast.
• For a variation, add thinly sliced carrots or shredded daikon radish to the spinach before blanching.

Health and beauty benefits

Spinach ohitashi is packed with delightful effects that nourish both the mind and body, such as preventing and improving anemia, promoting beautiful skin, relieving constipation, preventing high blood pressure, and preventing osteoporosis. Iron is effective for preventing and improving anemia, while vitamin C and beta-carotene contribute to beautiful skin. Dietary fiber aids in relieving constipation, potassium helps prevent high blood pressure, and calcium and magnesium are beneficial for preventing osteoporosis.