This Miso-Glazed Eggplant with Sesame is a delightful dance of savory and sweet, with a rich umami glaze that transforms the humble eggplant into a culinary masterpiece. The glaze is silky and clings to the eggplant like a perfectly tailored suit, offering a symphony of flavors with every bite.
Origin and History
Eggplant, or aubergine as it’s known in some parts of the world, has a storied past that dates back to ancient India. It made its way through the spice routes, captivating palates across Asia and the Mediterranean. The Japanese, known for their ability to elevate simple ingredients to an art form, have embraced the eggplant wholeheartedly. The miso glaze, a hallmark of Japanese cuisine, adds depth and complexity to the dish. This combination is a nod to the traditional Japanese Nasu Dengaku, a dish that celebrates the earthy flavors of eggplant, perfectly balanced by the salty-sweet miso.
Unique Ingredients and Flavors
Miso paste, the star of this recipe, is a fermented soybean paste that exudes umami—a taste sensation that is savory and deeply satisfying. When combined with mirin, a sweet rice wine, it creates a glaze that’s both rich and nuanced. The sesame seeds, toasted to perfection, add a nutty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, creamy texture of the eggplant. Cutting the eggplant into thick slices allows it to absorb the glaze while roasting, resulting in a dish that is both visually stunning and incredibly flavorful.
Cooking Techniques and Tips
The secret to this dish lies in the roasting of the eggplant. By salting the slices before cooking, you draw out excess moisture, ensuring a tender yet firm texture. The roasting process caramelizes the natural sugars in the eggplant, enhancing its inherent sweetness. The key is patience—letting the eggplant roast until it’s golden brown and slightly charred around the edges. This step is crucial, as it brings out the eggplant’s natural flavors, allowing the miso glaze to shine as it envelops each piece with its glossy, flavorful coat.
Miso-Glazed Eggplant | Sweet and Savory Japanese Dish
Description
A harmonious blend of roasted eggplant, tangy miso glaze, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. Perfect as a side dish or a vegetarian main, it brings a touch of Japanese-inspired cuisine to your table.
Ingredients
For the Eggplant
For the Miso Glaze
For Garnish
Instructions
Preparing the Eggplant
-
Slice the Eggplant
Cut the eggplant lengthwise into thick slices, about half an inch each.If you're using smaller eggplants like Japanese or Chinese varieties, you might want to cut them into quarters. -
Salt the Eggplant
Sprinkle salt generously over the eggplant slices and let them sit for about 20 minutes to draw out excess moisture.This step helps reduce bitterness and ensures a better texture after cooking.
Making the Miso Glaze
-
Mix the Glaze Ingredients
Combine miso paste, mirin, soy sauce, and a touch of sugar in a small bowl. Stir until smooth.For a deeper flavor, consider adding a pinch of ginger or garlic to the glaze.
Cooking the Eggplant
-
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to broil, ensuring it's nice and hot before you start cooking the eggplant.A hot oven ensures the eggplant caramelizes beautifully without becoming soggy. -
Apply the Glaze
Brush the miso glaze generously over the eggplant slices, ensuring each piece is well-coated.Don’t be shy here—the more glaze, the more flavor! -
Broil the Eggplant
Place the eggplant on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and broil for about 5-7 minutes until the glaze is bubbly and slightly charred.Keep a close eye on them; they can go from perfect to burned quickly under the broiler.
Finishing Touches
-
Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the eggplant slices and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.For a touch of freshness, you can also add a squeeze of lime or lemon juice.
Note
For a deeper umami flavor, consider using white miso for a milder taste or red miso for a more robust profile. Toast sesame seeds lightly before garnishing to enhance their nuttiness. If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze. To achieve a caramelized finish, place eggplant under the broiler for a minute or two after baking. Ensure the eggplant slices are uniform in thickness for even cooking. If available, use Japanese eggplants for a more tender texture. For a gluten-free version, opt for gluten-free soy sauce. Adjust the sweetness of the glaze to taste by varying the amount of honey or sugar.
