Minari Namul (Water Parsley Side Dish) 미나리 나물
Why this food?
Minari namul is a light, refreshing Korean side dish that embodies the spirit of the film—simple, nourishing, and deeply connected to resilience. This quick-to-prepare banchan uses water parsley's delicate flavor enhanced with garlic and sesame oil, creating a dish that tastes authentically Korean even when made with American grocery staples.
🇰🇷 K-Culture Tip
Namul refers to any seasoned vegetable side dish in Korean cuisine and is a staple at every Korean meal. Water parsley (minari) grows wild throughout Korea and has been harvested for centuries, prized for its subtle peppery taste and crisp texture. In Korean culture, minari symbolizes adaptability and persistence—qualities that resonate deeply with immigrant communities worldwide.
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Substitute Ingredients
All available at Walmart
| Original | Substitute |
|---|---|
Water parsley (minari) 미나리 | Fresh baby spinach or fresh arugula Walmart Great Value or Mann's Water parsley is difficult to find fresh in US Walmarts; spinach provides similar tender texture and mild flavor. Arugula offers a peppery bite closer to minari's authentic taste. Shop at Walmart |
Garlic 마늘 | Minced fresh garlic or garlic paste Walmart Great Value Fresh minced garlic is always preferable for authentic flavor, but jarred minced garlic or paste works in a pinch. Shop at Walmart |
Sesame oil 참기름 | Toasted sesame oil Walmart Great Value or Dynasty Use toasted (dark) sesame oil for authentic Korean flavor—it's non-negotiable for proper namul taste. Found near soy sauce in most Walmarts. Shop at Walmart |
🛒 Can't find it at Walmart? Try a Korean grocery store
Your Shopping List
Walmart edition
- 4 cups (about 5 oz / 140g) Fresh baby spinach or fresh arugula
- 2 cloves, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic paste) Minced fresh garlic or garlic paste
- 1.5 tablespoons Toasted sesame oil
Instructions
- 1
Step 1: Rinse the fresh spinach or arugula thoroughly under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. If using spinach, remove any thick stems.
- 2
Step 2: Bring a pot of lightly salted water to a boil and blanch the greens for 1-2 minutes until just tender. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking, then drain and gently squeeze out excess water.
- 3
Step 3: Transfer the blanched greens to a mixing bowl and add the minced garlic, sesame oil, and salt to taste. Mix gently but thoroughly, ensuring every strand is coated with the seasoning.
- 4
Step 4: Taste and adjust seasoning—add more salt or garlic if needed. The flavor should be clean, garlicky, and balanced with the nutty sesame oil.
- 5
Step 5: Transfer to a serving dish and let cool slightly. Serve as a refreshing banchan (side dish) at room temperature or chilled alongside rice and other Korean dishes.
