Description
This Miso Eggplant recipe features tender, scored eggplant halves glazed with a savory and sweet miso sauce, finished under the broiler for a deliciously bubbly, caramelized top. It is a quick, flavorful, and healthy vegetarian dish perfect as a side or light main.
Ingredients
Eggplant
- 2 large Eggplants
- 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil (refined, for high smoke point)
Miso Glaze
- 2 tablespoons Brown Miso Paste
- 2 teaspoons Sesame Oil
- 2 teaspoons Maple Syrup
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Light Soy Sauce
- 1 teaspoon Rice Vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Mirin
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds
- 1 batch Green Onions (sliced)
Instructions
- Prepare baking tray: Line a large baking tray or two small baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Slice eggplants: Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise to create four halves total.
- Score eggplants: Using a small sharp knife, carefully score the flesh side of each eggplant half into a diamond or cube pattern to allow the glaze to penetrate and for even cooking.
- Heat sesame oil: Warm 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large non-stick saucepan over medium-high heat.
- Sear eggplants: Place the eggplant halves scored side down into the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes until the flesh begins to brown.
- Steam soften: Flip eggplants over, cover the pan with a lid, reduce heat to low-medium, and cook for 3-4 minutes until the eggplant softens in the center.
- Preheat broiler: Set the oven to broil mode and allow it to warm up while the eggplants cook.
- Make miso glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the brown miso paste, 2 teaspoons sesame oil, maple syrup, light soy sauce, rice vinegar, and mirin until smooth.
- Apply glaze: Remove the eggplants from the pan and place them flesh side up on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each half generously with the miso glaze.
- Add sesame seeds: Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds evenly over the glazed eggplants.
- Broil: Place the tray on the top rack of the oven under the broiler and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the glaze is bubbly and slightly charred.
- Serve: Remove the eggplants from the oven and immediately serve garnished with sliced green onions and optional chili flakes for heat.
Notes
- Use refined sesame oil for searing because of its high smoke point; finishing glaze uses toasted sesame oil flavor if preferred.
- Light soy sauce is preferred for a milder saltiness; adjust to taste if using regular soy sauce.
- Scoring the eggplant deeply helps the glaze infuse the flesh and cooks the eggplant evenly.
- Broiling the glazed eggplant creates a caramelized and bubbly finish similar to grilling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: Japanese