Add a Japanese flair to your dishes with this ingredient
What's the story
Miso, the traditional Japanese seasoning, is famous for its rich umami flavor and versatility as a cooking ingredient. Prepared from fermented soybeans, it gives depth to different dishes without overpowering them. In this article, we will take a look at five vibrant recipes that use miso to amp up your regular meals. From soups to salads, miso can do wonders with basic ingredients, making it a staple around kitchens across the world.
Classic soup
Miso soup with tofu and seaweed
A comforting dish, miso soup can be made by mixing miso paste with tofu and seaweed for a nourishing meal. To make this classic soup, dissolve two tablespoons of miso paste in four cups of dashi broth. Add cubed tofu and rehydrated seaweed to the mix. Heat gently until warm but don't boil to maintain the delicate flavors. This simple yet flavorful soup makes an excellent appetizer or light meal.
Flavorful glaze
Miso glazed vegetables
Miso glazed vegetables are a savory twist on roasted veggies. For the glaze, mix two tablespoons of miso paste and one tablespoon each of soy sauce and maple syrup. Toss your choice of veggies such as carrots or sweet potatoes in this mixture before roasting at 200 degrees Celsius till tender and caramelized. The glaze enhances veggies' natural sweetness while adding an umami punch.
Savory dressing
Miso dressing for salads
A miso dressing can take any salad up a notch with its unique taste profile. Mix two tablespoons of white miso paste with one tablespoon each of rice vinegar and sesame oil, and one teaspoon honey for balance. Whisk together until smooth before drizzling over fresh greens or grain-based salads like quinoa or barley for added flavor complexity.
Quick stir-fry
Miso stir-fry sauce
For a quick stir-fry sauce that packs flavor, mix two tablespoons each of red miso paste and soy sauce with one tablespoon each of mirin and water. Coat your choice of stir-fried vegetables (bell peppers or broccoli, anyone?) with this sauce. The result: a savory dish ready in minutes that pairs well over steamed rice.
Marinade magic
Miso marinade for grilled vegetables
Create an easy marinade by mixing together three tablespoons white miso paste, two teaspoons grated ginger root, and three teaspoons lemon juice, evenly. Then apply onto sliced eggplant, zucchini, mushrooms, etc. allowing them time to soak up flavors before the grilling process. This gives a smoky aroma along with tangy zestiness, making for a deliciously satisfying side dish or accompaniment to main course options alike.