A deliciously savory and slightly sweet dish featuring tender eggplant coated in a rich miso glaze, perfect as a side dish or a vegetarian main.
Servings 4servings
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine Japanese, Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Eggplant
2mediumeggplantssliced in half lengthwise
1tablespoonolive oilfor brushing
For the Miso Glaze
3tablespoonswhite miso pastefor a milder flavor
1tablespoonsoy saucelow sodium preferred
1tablespoonrice vinegarfor acidity
1tablespoonmaple syrupfor sweetness
1teaspoonsesame oilfor depth of flavor
1teaspoongrated gingerfor a hint of spice
1clovegarlicminced
1tablespoonwaterto thin the glaze if necessary
For Garnish
2tablespoonssesame seedstoasted, for garnish
2scallionsslicedfor garnish
Method
Prepare the Eggplant
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the eggplant cooks evenly and develops a nice caramelization.
Slice the eggplants in half lengthwise and score the flesh in a crisscross pattern without cutting through the skin. This helps the glaze penetrate the eggplant and allows for better cooking.
Brush the cut sides of the eggplant with olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
Make the Miso Glaze
In a mixing bowl, combine the white miso paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, sesame oil, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Whisk until smooth. If the mixture is too thick, add water a teaspoon at a time until you reach a spreadable consistency.
Bake the Eggplant
Place the eggplant halves cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
Spread a generous amount of the miso glaze over the cut sides of the eggplant, ensuring even coverage.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender and the glaze is caramelized. You can broil for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end for a charred finish, but watch closely to avoid burning.
Serve
Remove the eggplant from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced scallions for garnish before serving.
Enjoy your miso-glazed eggplant warm as a side dish or over rice as a main course.
For best results, choose firm eggplants and ensure even slicing. You can adjust the sweetness of the glaze by modifying the amount of maple syrup used.