Two quick and easy side dishes: Komatsuna and Spinach

Komatsuna nibitashi (simmered greens) and spinach with sesame dressing.
Both are classic side dishes that are easy to prepare in advance.

⬛️ Komatsuna Nibitashi
【Ingredients】 (Easy-to-make quantity)
・Komatsuna... 2 bags
・Deep-fried tofu (abura-age)... 10g
・Light soy sauce... to taste
・Salt... a pinch
・Bonito dashi stock... 1 pack
・Water... 400cc

【Instructions】
1. Preparation
・Wash the komatsuna thoroughly under running water, making sure to remove all dirt from the base.
・Bring a large pot of water to a boil, quickly blanch the komatsuna, and
　rinse in cold water.
・Squeeze out the excess water well and cut into 5cm lengths.

2. Make the dashi stock
・In a separate pot, add water and the bonito dashi pack, then heat.
　Once it boils, remove the dashi pack.
・Season with light soy sauce and salt, add the deep-fried tofu, and turn off the heat.
・Pour the dashi over the cut komatsuna and let it soak in the flavor.

※ Boil the komatsuna for a short time so that the stems retain a crisp texture.

3. Plating
・Serve in a bowl and it's done!

⬛️ Spinach with Sesame Dressing
【Ingredients】 (Easy-to-make quantity)
・Spinach... 2 bags
・Light soy sauce... 4 tablespoons
・Kibi sugar (cane sugar)... 2 tablespoons
・Toasted sesame seeds... 2 teaspoons

【Instructions】
1. Preparation
・Wash the spinach thoroughly under running water, remove any dirt from the base,
　and drain well.
・Bring a large pot of water to a boil, quickly blanch the spinach,
　rinse in cold water, squeeze out the excess water well, and cut into 5cm lengths.

2. Make the dressing
・Grind the toasted sesame seeds in a mortar.
・Combine with light soy sauce and kibi sugar to adjust the flavor.
・Transfer the dressing to a bowl and toss with the spinach, loosening it as you mix.

3. Plating
・Serve in a bowl and it's done!

【Quick Tips】
・Both komatsuna and spinach can have dirt at the base, so
　wash them thoroughly.
・The key for both is not to overcook them.

Next time, I will bring you, "Another unfortunate event".

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