Goma-ae (Japanese Sesame Seed Dressing)

This is a simple, but delicious dressing for cooked vegetables. It's so simple in fact that we wonder why parents don't use this technique to encourage kids to eat their veggies. Below is the proper way to make goma-ae and the lazy way, which I often use when I'm lazy.

Ingredients:
3 tablespoons sesame seeds (toasted or untoasted, toasted is easier)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon sugar

1. Toast the sesame seeds. If they are untoasted, put them in a pan or skillet over medium-high heat until they are fragrant. They may pop. Be sure to keep stirring them so they don't burn, which can happen easily. This should only take 3-5 minutes. If they are toasted, toasting them a bit more makes them more aromatic.
2. Crush the seeds in a mortar and pestle or just crush them a bit with a spoon to release more flavor and oils.
3. Add the soy and sugar. Stir and set aside.

Add this to your cooked vegetables. Spinach and green beans are common, but you can add this to just about anything. Serve warm or room temperature.

The Lazy Approach

Mix some toasted sesame seeds, soy sauce, and sugar to taste. You can add a small amount of water if it's too salty. Don't worry about grinding the seeds. Toss with your veggies and eat.