Miso glazed eggplant, also known as Nasu Dengaku, is a traditional Japanese dish that features grilled or broiled eggplant brushed with a savory and slightly sweet miso glaze. This vegan recipe is not only flavorful but also simple to prepare.

Ingredients

• Eggplants: 2 medium-sized (Japanese or globe eggplants work well)
• Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons (for frying)
• Miso Paste: 1/4 cup (white miso or a mix of red and white)
• Mirin: 2 tablespoons
• Sake: 1 tablespoon (optional)
• Sugar: 1 tablespoon (granulated or maple syrup)
• Sesame Oil: 1 tablespoon (for flavor)
• Sesame Seeds: for garnish
• Green Onions: sliced, for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Eggplant:

• Slice the eggplants in half lengthwise.
• Score the flesh in a criss-cross pattern to allow the glaze to penetrate.

Cook the Eggplant:

• Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
• Place the eggplant halves cut side down and cook for about 3-4 minutes until browned.
• Flip them over, cover, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until tender.

Make the Miso Glaze:

• In a bowl, whisk together miso paste, mirin, sake (if using), sugar, and sesame oil until smooth.

Glaze and Broil:

• Preheat your oven’s broiler.
• Place the cooked eggplants on a foil-lined baking sheet, cut side up.
• Generously brush the miso glaze over the top of each eggplant half.
• Broil for about 4-5 minutes until the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.

Serve:

• Remove from the oven and optionally brush with more glaze for extra flavor.
• Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

Tips for Best Results

• Choose medium-sized eggplants for optimal flavor and texture.
• If using larger eggplants, consider adjusting cooking times to ensure they are tender without becoming mushy.
• This dish pairs well with rice or can be served as part of a larger meal with pickled vegetables.

Miso glaze is versatile and can be used with a variety of vegetables, each bringing its unique flavor and texture to the dish. Here’s a comprehensive look at your questions regarding miso glaze and its applications.

Vegetables for Miso Glaze

You can use a range of vegetables with miso glaze, including:

• Zucchini: Similar to eggplant, zucchini absorbs flavors well and grills nicely.
• Carrots: Roasted or grilled carrots with miso glaze offer a sweet and savory combination.
• Cauliflower: Miso-glazed cauliflower can be roasted or grilled for a hearty side.
• Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the umami of miso.
• Asparagus: Grilled asparagus with miso glaze adds a delightful crunch and flavor.

Types of Miso Paste

Different types of miso paste can indeed alter the flavor profile of your glaze:

• White Miso (Shiro): Sweet and mild, suitable for lighter dishes and marinades.
• Red Miso (Aka): Stronger and saltier, ideal for richer dishes.
• Yellow Miso (Mugi): Offers a balance between sweetness and umami, making it versatile for various recipes[.

Mixing different types of miso can also create complex flavors, such as combining white and red miso for a balanced taste.

Thickening Miso Glaze

To make your miso glaze thicker, consider the following methods:

• Add Starch: Mix in a small amount of cornstarch or arrowroot powder dissolved in water to thicken the glaze.
• Reduce the Liquid: Simmer the glaze on low heat until it reduces and thickens naturally.
• Incorporate Nut Butters: Adding tahini or almond butter can provide thickness while enhancing flavor.

Side Dishes Pairing

Miso glazed eggplant pairs well with various side dishes:

• Steamed Rice: A classic accompaniment that balances the rich flavors.
• Miso Soup: Complements the umami profile of the eggplant.
• Pickled Vegetables: Adds acidity and freshness to contrast with the richness of the eggplant.
• Grilled Greens: Such as bok choy or kale, which can be brushed with miso glaze as well.

Grilling vs. Broiling

Yes, you can use a grill instead of broiling for the eggplant. Grilling will impart a smoky flavor that complements the miso glaze beautifully. Just ensure that the grill is preheated and that you monitor the cooking time to achieve tenderness without burning.

Vrsatility makes miso glaze an excellent addition to many vegetable dishes, enhancing their flavors while providing health benefits associated with fermented foods.

This recipe highlights the umami flavor of miso combined with the natural sweetness of roasted eggplant, making it a delightful addition to any vegan menu.