Pin It Experience the ultimate umami bomb with this Miso Glazed Eggplant. Tender Japanese eggplant halves are roasted until they reach a silky, melt-in-your-mouth texture, then finished with a savory-sweet glaze that caramelizes under the broiler. This classic Japanese dish offers a perfect balance of rich flavors and delicate textures, making it a standout addition to any meal.
Pin It The secret to the perfect Miso Glazed Eggplant lies in the preparation. By scoring the flesh in a crosshatch pattern, you create channels for the glaze to seep deep into the eggplant, ensuring every bite is infused with the sweet and savory notes of mirin, sake, and miso. It is a simple yet elegant technique that transforms a humble vegetable into a gourmet experience.
Ingredients
- Eggplant: 2 medium Japanese eggplants
- Miso Glaze: 3 tbsp white miso paste, 1 tbsp mirin, 1 tbsp sake, 1 tbsp sugar, 1 tbsp sesame oil
- Garnish: 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds, 2 green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2
- Slice eggplants in half lengthwise. Score the flesh in a crosshatch pattern, being careful not to pierce the skin.
- Step 3
- Brush cut sides with a little sesame oil and place cut-side up on the baking sheet.
- Step 4
- Roast for 20–25 minutes, until the flesh is tender and golden.
- Step 5
- Meanwhile, whisk together the miso paste, mirin, sake, sugar, and remaining sesame oil in a small bowl until smooth.
- Step 6
- Remove eggplants from the oven. Spread a generous layer of miso glaze evenly over the cut sides.
- Step 7
- Set oven to broil. Broil eggplants for 2–3 minutes, until the glaze bubbles and caramelizes (watch closely to prevent burning).
- Step 8
- Remove from oven and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and green onions. Serve warm.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure success, use a sharp knife for scoring and have a baking sheet with parchment paper ready. You will also need a small mixing bowl and a brush or spoon for the glaze. Please note that this recipe contains soy and sesame. Always check sake and mirin labels for hidden gluten if you have dietary restrictions.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is highly adaptable. You can substitute honey or maple syrup for the sugar to achieve a different sweetness profile. For a gluten-free version, ensure you use gluten-free miso and check your sake/mirin labels. It is also vegan-friendly if you use a vegan-certified miso paste.
Serviervorschläge
This dish is delicious when served warm with a side of steamed rice. It works beautifully as a light main dish or as a side within a larger Japanese-inspired meal. The combination of the warm, glazed vegetable and fresh green onions creates a wonderful contrast in every bite.
Pin It Each serving of this Miso Glazed Eggplant contains approximately 110 calories, 4g of total fat, 17g of carbohydrates, and 3g of protein. It is a light yet incredibly satisfying way to enjoy the deep, earthy flavors of traditional Japanese cuisine at home.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use regular eggplant instead of Japanese?
Yes, though Japanese eggplants are preferred for their tender skin and fewer seeds. If using globe eggplants, slice into thicker rounds and extend roasting time by 5-10 minutes until fully tender.
- → What makes the glaze caramelize properly?
The sugar combined with the natural sugars in miso creates the caramelization under high heat. Broiling for just 2-3 minutes at the end transforms the glaze into a glossy, amber coating—watch closely to prevent burning.
- → Is this dish spicy?
No, the flavor profile is sweet and savory rather than spicy. The miso provides umami depth while mirin and sake add subtle sweetness. For a spicy kick, add chili flakes or sriracha to the glaze.
- → Can I make this vegan?
Absolutely. Simply ensure your miso paste is labeled vegan—some traditional varieties contain bonito flakes. All other ingredients including mirin, sake, and sesame oil are naturally plant-based.
- → How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to restore the caramelized texture. Microwaving works but may soften the glaze.