Japanese Miso Recipes

Japanese miso recipes have been a staple of Japanese cuisine for centuries, with the fermented soybean paste being used in various dishes from soups to marinades. The versatility and depth of flavor that miso brings to any dish make it a beloved ingredient among home cooks and professional chefs alike. In this article, we'll explore some traditional and modern miso recipes that showcase its incredible range.

Classic Miso Soup

Miso soup is perhaps the most well-known Japanese miso recipe. Made with a rich broth, wakame seaweed, tofu, and of course, miso paste, this simple yet comforting soup is often served as a starter or side dish. To make it, combine 2 tablespoons of white miso paste with 1 tablespoon of dashi broth (a Japanese cooking stock) in a small saucepan over low heat. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and heated through. Serve immediately.

Grilled Miso Salmon

For a more modern take on Japanese miso recipes, try this grilled salmon dish. Marinate the fish in a mixture of 2 tablespoons of white miso paste, 1 tablespoon of sake (Japanese rice wine), 1 tablespoon of mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine), and 1 teaspoon of sugar for at least 30 minutes. Grill the salmon until cooked through, then serve with a side of steamed vegetables.

Miso Braised Pork Belly

This rich and savory dish is a staple of modern Japanese cuisine. To make it, combine 2 tablespoons of red miso paste with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of sake, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar in a small saucepan over low heat. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and heated through. Add 4 ounces of pork belly to the saucepan and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or until the meat is tender and caramelized.

Miso Ramen Noodles

For a more comforting Japanese miso recipe, try this twist on traditional ramen noodles. Cook 1 package of ramen noodles according to the package instructions. In a separate saucepan, combine 2 tablespoons of white miso paste with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of sake, and 1 teaspoon of sugar over low heat. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and heated through. Serve the cooked noodles in bowls, then top with sliced pork or chicken, green onions, and a spoonful of the miso sauce.

Miso-Glazed Sweet Potatoes

This sweet and savory side dish is perfect for any occasion. To make it, combine 2 tablespoons of white miso paste with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of sake, and 1 teaspoon of brown sugar in a small saucepan over low heat. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and heated through. Brush the mixture onto sliced sweet potatoes during the last 10 minutes of roasting to create a sticky and flavorful glaze.

Miso-Ginger Dressing

For a delicious and healthy Japanese miso recipe, try this simple salad dressing. Combine 2 tablespoons of white miso paste with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of grated ginger in a small bowl. Whisk until the mixture is smooth, then serve as a dressing for salads or noodle dishes.

Matcha Miso Ice Cream

This unique Japanese miso recipe combines the bitterness of matcha green tea with the richness of miso paste to create a truly one-of-a-kind dessert. To make it, combine 2 tablespoons of white miso paste with 1 tablespoon of matcha powder and 1 cup of heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and heated through, then chill in the refrigerator before serving as ice cream.