Miso paste, a fermented soybean product originating from Japan, has been gaining popularity worldwide for its rich umami flavor and impressive health benefits. With its savory, slightly sweet, and nutty taste, miso paste can elevate any dish from ordinary to extraordinary. From soups and sauces to marinades and baked goods, the possibilities are endless when it comes to incorporating miso paste into your cooking.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious and creative recipes that showcase the versatility of miso paste. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting to experiment with new flavors, these recipes are sure to inspire and delight. So, let’s dive in and discover the wonderful world of miso-based cuisine!
Miso Glazed Salmon
This sweet and savory miso glaze adds a depth of flavor to the rich omega-3 fatty acid-rich salmon, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can elevate your meal game with this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup white miso paste
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the miso glaze evenly over each fillet, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Drizzle sesame oil over the salmon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Miso Ramen with Soft-Boiled Eggs
A rich and savory Japanese-inspired noodle dish, elevated by the creamy texture of soft-boiled eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 2 tablespoons of miso paste
– 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup of chopped scallions for garnish
– Sesame seeds and grated ginger for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, combine the miso paste and broth. Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. While the soup is heating up, cook the eggs by placing them in a saucepan of boiling water for 6-7 minutes.
5. Remove the eggs from the water with a slotted spoon and rinse with cold water.
6. Divide the cooked noodles among bowls. Ladle the hot miso broth over the noodles.
7. Slice the soft-boiled eggs and place on top of the noodles.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, sesame seeds, and grated ginger (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Miso Butter Corn on the Cob
Elevate your summer BBQs with this sweet and savory Miso Butter Corn on the Cob recipe!
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp white miso paste
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, miso paste, honey, and smoked paprika (if using).
3. Place corn on the cob on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred.
4. During the last minute of grilling, spread the miso butter mixture evenly onto each ear of corn.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Miso Soup with Tofu and Wakame
This traditional Japanese soup is a staple of any meal, providing a comforting and savory flavor profile that’s both nourishing and delicious. This recipe combines the rich umami taste of miso paste with the creamy texture of tofu and the tender crunch of wakame seaweed.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups dashi broth (or vegetable broth)
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1/4 cup dried wakame seaweed, rehydrated in hot water and chopped
– 1 green onion, thinly sliced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine dashi broth and miso paste. Whisk until smooth.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add tofu and wakame. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the seaweed is tender.
4. Stir in grated ginger.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with thinly sliced green onion.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Miso-Glazed Eggplant
This Japanese-inspired dish elevates the humble eggplant with a sweet and savory miso glaze, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup white miso paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and grated ginger.
3. Brush the miso glaze on both sides of the eggplant slices.
4. Place the glazed eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the eggplant is tender and caramelized.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Miso Caramel Cookies
These unique cookies combine the richness of caramel with the umami flavor of miso, creating a delightful fusion that will surprise and delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons miso paste
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup caramel bits (such as Kraft Caramello)
– Optional: flaky sea salt for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add miso paste and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Stir in caramel bits.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Miso Chicken Stir-Fry
This Miso Chicken Stir-Fry recipe combines the savory flavors of miso paste with succulent chicken and crunchy vegetables, making for a quick and delicious dinner option. With just 20 minutes of cooking time, this dish is perfect for a busy evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 2 tsp miso paste
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, chicken, bell peppers, and snow peas. Cook until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender-crisp (5-6 minutes).
3. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, soy sauce, and honey.
4. Pour the miso mixture over the chicken and vegetables. Stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes to combine flavors.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Miso-Garlic Roasted Mushrooms
Miso-Garlic Roasted Mushrooms Recipe
Roasting mushrooms brings out their natural sweetness and earthy flavors, while the miso paste adds a savory and umami depth. This recipe combines the two for a deliciously complex flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), cleaned and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp white miso paste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the miso paste, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the miso mixture.
4. Spread the mushrooms out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the mushrooms and toss gently to combine.
6. Roast the mushrooms in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Miso Peanut Noodles
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this easy-to-make Miso Peanut Noodle recipe, which combines the rich flavors of miso paste and peanut butter with the simplicity of noodles.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. rice noodles
– 2 tbsp. creamy natural peanut butter
– 1 tsp. white miso paste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp. soy sauce
– 1 tsp. sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions or bean sprouts for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, whisk together peanut butter, miso paste, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil over medium heat.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking constantly, until smooth and slightly thickened (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Add cooked noodles to the skillet and toss to combine with the sauce, ensuring noodles are well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or bean sprouts if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Miso Butternut Squash Soup
Warm up with this comforting and savory soup that combines the sweetness of butternut squash with the umami flavor of miso. This recipe is perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup white miso paste
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro or scallions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss squash with butter, onion, and garlic on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a blender or food processor, puree roasted squash mixture with broth and miso paste.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Miso-Marinated Black Cod
Miso-Marinated Black Cod Recipe
This Japanese-inspired dish combines the rich flavors of miso paste with the tender flaky texture of black cod, creating a harmonious balance of sweet and savory notes. A perfect appetizer or main course for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pieces of black cod (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup white miso paste
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake (or substitute with dry white wine)
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tsp sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine miso paste, soy sauce, sake, rice vinegar, sugar, garlic, and ginger. Blend until smooth.
3. Place the cod pieces in a shallow dish, skin side down (if it has skin). Pour the marinade over the fish, making sure each piece is coated.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Miso Tahini Dressing for Salads
Elevate your salads with the rich flavors of Miso Tahini Dressing, a creamy and savory condiment that’s perfect for topping your favorite greens.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup miso paste
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, cumin, or other spices of your choice
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, miso paste, and 1 tablespoon of the apple cider vinegar.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly add the remaining 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, and water.
4. Continue blending until well combined and thickened to your liking.
5. Season with salt and any additional spices you like.
Cooking Time: None! Simply blend and serve.
Miso Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies combine the rich flavors of miso with the sweetness of chocolate chips, creating a unique and delicious treat. Perfect for a snack or dessert, these cookies are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons miso paste
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add miso paste and mix until well combined.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Miso-Ginger Grilled Shrimp
Elevate your grilling game with this Asian-inspired dish that combines the sweetness of shrimp with the savory flavors of miso and ginger. This recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or a flavorful appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp white miso paste
– 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– Vegetable oil for grilling
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, ginger, soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove shrimp from marinade and brush with vegetable oil.
4. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with sliced green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes total
Miso Sweet Potato Mash
Experience the harmonious union of sweet and savory flavors with this unique miso-infused sweet potato mash recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup white miso paste
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with a drizzle of oil and season with salt.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until tender when pierced.
4. Remove from oven and mash sweet potatoes with a fork.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, maple syrup, and heavy cream or whole milk until smooth.
6. Add the miso mixture to the mashed sweet potatoes and stir until well combined.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Miso Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
This recipe adds an umami depth to the traditional roasted Brussels sprouts, thanks to the sweet and savory miso paste. The crispy bacon adds a satisfying crunch to each bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, cook the bacon pieces in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste and 1 tablespoon of water.
7. Toss the roasted Brussels sprouts with the cooked bacon and miso mixture.
8. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Miso-Glazed Pork Belly
Sweet and savory, this Miso-Glazed Pork Belly recipe combines the richness of pork belly with the umami flavor of miso. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup white miso paste
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, brown sugar, soy sauce, and rice vinegar.
3. Score the pork belly in a crisscross pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
4. Place the pork belly on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or a roasting pan.
5. Brush the miso glaze all over the pork belly, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
6. Roast for 2 hours and 15 minutes, or until the meat is tender and caramelized.
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Miso Banana Bread
Miso Banana Bread Recipe
Introduce a new twist to classic banana bread with the savory flavor of miso paste, adding depth and umami to this sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup miso paste
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Add mashed bananas, eggs, vanilla extract, salt, baking powder, cinnamon, and miso paste. Mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add flour to the mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Miso Caesar Salad Dressing
This recipe combines the creamy richness of traditional Caesar dressing with the savory umami flavor of miso paste, creating a unique and delicious twist on a classic.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg yolk
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine lemon juice, miso paste, garlic, egg yolk, and mustard. Blend until smooth.
2. With the blender or food processor running, slowly pour in olive oil in a thin stream until fully incorporated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (hands-on)
Miso Caramel Popcorn
Transform your snack game with this sweet and savory Miso Caramel Popcorn recipe! This unique flavor combination will have you hooked from the very first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons white granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons miso paste
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn maker.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine butter, brown sugar, white granulated sugar, miso paste, and vanilla extract. Place over medium heat and stir until the sugars dissolve.
4. Remove from heat and pour the caramel mixture over the popped popcorn. Toss until evenly coated.
5. Spread the popcorn mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even cooking.
7. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with salt. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Summary
Miso paste, a fermented soybean product, is a versatile ingredient that can elevate many dishes. From savory to sweet, this article presents 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase miso’s umami flavor. Try glazing salmon or eggplant with miso for a rich, Asian-inspired dish. Make a comforting bowl of miso ramen or soup with soft-boiled eggs and wakame seaweed. For something sweeter, indulge in miso caramel cookies or banana bread. The possibilities are endless with miso paste! Experiment with these recipes to discover the magic of this fermented soybean ingredient.
