Goma-ae (胡麻和え) is a classic Japanese side dish made by tossing blanched vegetables in a rich, nutty sesame dressing. The name combines "goma" (sesame) and "ae" (to dress or mix), perfectly describing this simple yet flavorful recipe. While spinach is the most common vegetable used, green beans, broccoli, asparagus, and other seasonal vegetables are also popular choices.

Served in homes, traditional restaurants, and bento boxes throughout Japan, Goma-ae is celebrated for its balance of earthy vegetables, fragrant toasted sesame seeds, and a lightly sweet and savory dressing.

What Is Goma-ae?

Goma-ae is prepared by blanching vegetables until tender-crisp, then coating them with a dressing made from toasted sesame seeds, soy sauce, sugar, and mirin. Unlike salads that rely on oil-based dressings, Goma-ae gets its rich flavor from freshly ground sesame seeds, creating a creamy texture without using dairy.

The result is a healthy, aromatic side dish that complements almost any Japanese meal.

Ingredients

For the Salad

  • 300 g fresh spinach
  • 2 liters water
  • 1 teaspoon salt (for blanching)
  • Ice water for cooling

For the Sesame Dressing

  • 4 tablespoons toasted white sesame seeds
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon mirin
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)

Garnish

  • Extra toasted sesame seeds
  • Thinly sliced green onions (optional)

Kitchen Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Mortar and pestle (suribachi) or spice grinder
  • Colander
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring spoons

Step 1: Toast the Sesame Seeds

If using raw sesame seeds, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant.

Allow them to cool slightly.

Grind the sesame seeds using a mortar and pestle until they become coarse and aromatic.

Step 2: Prepare the Spinach

Bring salted water to a boil.

Blanch the spinach for 30–60 seconds until just wilted.

Immediately transfer it to ice water to stop the cooking process and preserve its bright green color.

Drain thoroughly and gently squeeze out excess moisture.

Cut the spinach into bite-sized lengths.

Step 3: Make the Sesame Dressing

In a bowl, combine the ground sesame seeds with:

  • Soy sauce
  • Mirin
  • Sugar
  • Sesame oil (if using)

Mix until a thick, flavorful dressing forms.

Step 4: Toss the Spinach

Add the prepared spinach to the sesame dressing.

Mix gently until every piece is evenly coated.

Avoid overmixing to keep the spinach tender.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer the Goma-ae to a serving dish.

Sprinkle with extra toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.

Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

Goma-ae pairs wonderfully with:

  • Steamed rice
  • Grilled salmon
  • Teriyaki chicken
  • Tonkatsu
  • Tempura
  • Sushi
  • Sashimi
  • Miso soup
  • Bento lunches

Tips for Perfect Goma-ae

  • Use fresh spinach with vibrant green leaves.
  • Do not overcook the spinach; blanching briefly keeps it tender and bright.
  • Squeeze out excess water thoroughly to prevent a watery dressing.
  • Freshly grind toasted sesame seeds for the richest flavor.
  • Balance the sweetness and saltiness by adjusting the sugar and soy sauce to your taste.
  • Chill the dish for 15–20 minutes before serving for even better flavor.

Flavor Variations

Green Bean Goma-ae

Replace spinach with blanched green beans for a crisp texture.

Broccoli Goma-ae

Use broccoli florets for a heartier side dish.

Asparagus Goma-ae

Blanch asparagus spears and coat them in the sesame dressing.

Mushroom Goma-ae

Mix in lightly sautéed shiitake or shimeji mushrooms for extra umami.

Mixed Vegetable Goma-ae

Combine spinach, carrots, broccoli, and snap peas for a colorful variation.

Storage

Store Goma-ae in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Serve chilled or allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

Freezing is not recommended, as the vegetables will lose their texture.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 120 kcal
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 9 g
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Authentic Japanese home-style side dish
  • Nutty, sweet, and savory sesame dressing
  • Healthy, nutritious, and packed with vitamins
  • Ready in about 20 minutes
  • Naturally vegetarian and easily made vegan
  • Perfect alongside grilled meats, seafood, or rice dishes

Japanese Goma-ae is a simple yet elegant dish that showcases the beauty of traditional Japanese cooking. With its tender vegetables and rich sesame dressing, it adds freshness, nutrition, and a delightful nutty flavor to any meal. Whether you're preparing a traditional Japanese dinner or looking for a healthy side dish, Goma-ae is a timeless recipe that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying.