About the Recipe
Miso-glazed eggplant is a dish that captures all the aromas and flavors of Asian cuisine, yet with a twist that makes it perfect for any table. The tender flesh of the eggplant blends with the thick, savory glaze, creating a dish rich in umami that can be served as a side dish or a main course.
Ingredients
For the eggplant:
2 eggplants
2 tablespoons sesame oil
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (white or black)
2 fresh scallions (for garnish)
For the miso glaze:
2 tablespoons miso (white or red)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Preparation
Step1
Wash the eggplants thoroughly and cut them in half lengthwise. Using the tip of a knife, score the flesh in a crisscross pattern, being careful not to cut all the way through, but only the inner part. This will help the eggplant cook more evenly and absorb more of the miso glaze.
Step 2
Brush the eggplants with sesame oil and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them in a preheated oven at 200°C for about 25–30 minutes, or until they are tender and golden brown.
Step 3
Meanwhile, prepare the glaze. In a bowl, mix the miso, soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, grated ginger, and sesame oil until the mixture is smooth and well combined. If you prefer a thinner glaze, you can add a little warm water.
Step 4
When the eggplants are ready, remove them from the oven and brush them generously with the miso glaze, making sure it seeps well into the slits in the flesh. Return them to the oven for another 5 minutes, so that the glaze caramelizes slightly and becomes glossy.
Why I Love This Dish
Miso-glazed eggplant reminds me of Japanese cuisine, but with a touch of simplicity that makes this dish perfect for any occasion. I love how the glaze enhances the natural flavor of the eggplant, transforming it into a rich and savory dish that’s also incredibly light. I’ve always loved Asian cuisine for its balance of sweet, salty, and umami flavors, and this dish is the perfect example of how we can combine readily available ingredients to create something special.