Shira-ae Spinach and Carrot
Shira-ae is a delicate Japanese side dish where smooth tofu and nutty sesame enhance the colour and texture of the vegetables, creating a light and balanced flavour.
Ingredients
- 200 g spinach
- 50 g carrot
- 150 g silken tofu
For the sauce:
- 1 tbsp white sesame seeds
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp miso
- 1/2 tsp soup stock (dashi)
- 1/2 tsp soy sauce
- a pinch of salt
Instructions
- Wrap the tofu in kitchen paper and press it gently for 20 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Grind the sesame seeds in a mortar.
- Cut the carrot into thin strips.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil. Boil the carrots for 30 seconds, then take it out to the plate to cool down.
- Add the spinach and boil for 30 seconds. Transfer to a bowl of cold water to cool quickly, then squeeze out the excess water and cut into 1 inch lengths.
- Place the tofu from step 1 into a bowl and whisk until smooth. Once smooth, add all the sauce ingredients and mix well.
- Add the spinach and carrots to step 6 and toss to combine all together.