Easy miso glazed eggplant recipe - Dengaku nasu
You will be surprised to see how easy it is to make this delicious Japanese miso eggplant. Tender eggplant halves are coated in a sweet miso glaze, creating a symphony of umami and sweetness. Bring the taste of Japan in your own kitchen.
Servings: 4 people
Ingredients
Miso glaze
- 2 tablespoons Miso paste Use red or white miso paste (shiro miso) and ensure it's gluten-free if needed
- 2 tablespoons Soy sauce Use tamari for a gluten-free option.
- 2 tablespoons Pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons hot water
Miso roasted eggplant
- 2 Eggplants (aubergines) Opt for smaller eggplants, approximately 20 cm long.
- 3 tablespoons Olive oil
Instructions
How to Cut Eggplant in a Crosshatch Pattern:
- Wash the eggplant and pat it dry. Cut each eggplant in half lengthwise.
- Place each half on a chopping board and make diagonal cuts, creating a crosshatch pattern.
- Turn 90 degrees and create diagonal lines across the first cuts without piercing the skin.
How to Make Miso Glaze:
- Combine miso paste, soy sauce, and maple syrup in a small bowl.
- Add 2-3 tablespoons of hot water and mix until you have a smooth, runny paste.
How to Roast Miso-Glazed Eggplant:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F)
- Arrange the eggplant halves, cut side up, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the eggplant with olive oil and bake for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, brush the eggplant halves generously with miso paste. Continue baking for 15 more minutes.
- Brush with remaining miso paste and roast for another 10 minutes until golden and tender.
- Remove from the oven, sprinkle with your favorite toppings, and enjoy!
Notes
- Gluten-Free Option: If you have dietary restrictions, ensure your miso paste and soy sauce (or tamari) are gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free versions.
- Even Miso Glaze Distribution: When brushing the miso glaze, ensure an even distribution to cover the eggplant surface. This guarantees a balanced flavor in every bite.
- Basting Technique: When basting the eggplant with miso paste, do it generously and evenly.
- Optional Add-ons to serve:
- Toasted Sesame Seeds
- Green Onion
- Fresh Cilantro Leaves (Coriander in Australia)
- Red Pepper Flakes
