Imagine a vibrant, golden-brown eggplant dish that combines the rich umami of miso with the nutty crunch of sesame seeds. This incredibly simple yet sophisticated recipe transforms humble eggplant into a restaurant-worthy side dish that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your dinner guests. Packed with flavor and nutrition, this miso sesame eggplant is a perfect addition to any meal, offering a delightful blend of Japanese-inspired seasonings and perfectly cooked vegetables.
Ingredients
- 2 large eggplants
- 3 tbsp miso paste (white or red)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp mirin (sweet rice wine) or honey
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 garlic clove, finely chopped
- 1/4 tsp grated fresh ginger
- Sesame seeds (white or black) for garnish
- Optional: A few sprigs of spring onion or fresh cilantro
- Vegetable oil for cooking
- Salt and pepper to taste
US Measurements: 2 large eggplants, 3 tablespoons miso paste, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon mirin/honey, 1 tablespoon sesame oil Metric Measurements: 2 large aubergines, 45 ml miso paste, 30 ml soy sauce, 15 ml mirin/honey, 15 ml sesame oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Eggplant
- Wash the eggplant and cut it into even sticks or medium cubes
- Heat a small amount of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat
- Fry the eggplant until golden brown and tender, approximately 8-10 minutes
- Stir regularly to prevent burning
- Season lightly with salt and pepper
2. Create the Miso Sauce
- In a separate bowl, combine miso paste, soy sauce, mirin (or honey), sesame oil
- Add minced garlic and grated ginger
- Whisk the ingredients until the sauce is smooth and well-integrated
3. Combine and Season
- Reduce the skillet heat to low
- Pour the prepared miso sauce over the cooked eggplant
- Gently toss to ensure even coating
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld
4. Finish and Serve
- Remove from heat
- Sprinkle generously with sesame seeds
- Optionally, garnish with chopped spring onions or fresh cilantro
Cooking Details
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
- Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-free option possible
Nutritional Highlights (per serving)
- Calories: Approximately 120-150
- Protein: 4-5g
- Healthy fats from sesame oil and seeds
- Low in carbohydrates
Why This Eggplant Recipe is Exceptional
This miso sesame eggplant isn’t just delicious—it’s a nutritional powerhouse. Eggplants are low in calories and high in fiber, while miso provides beneficial probiotics. The sesame seeds add a calcium and protein boost, making this dish both heart-healthy and satisfying. The umami-rich miso sauce creates depth of flavor that elevates the humble eggplant to a gourmet experience.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh, firm eggplants for the best texture
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying to ensure even browning
- Choose white miso for a milder flavor, red for more intensity
Enjoy this simple yet sophisticated dish that brings the flavors of Asian cuisine right to your dinner table!