Miso Glazed Eggplant

Introduction:

Miso Glazed Eggplant, known as "Nasu Dengaku" in Japanese cuisine, is a flavorful dish that highlights the earthy, rich taste of roasted eggplant combined with a caramelized miso glaze. This dish is an excellent side or main course, offering a balance of sweetness from the mirin and sugar, and saltiness from the miso. It’s a perfect dish for those who enjoy umami-rich flavors and is often served with rice or as part of a Japanese-inspired meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggplants (Japanese eggplants preferred)
• 3 tablespoons miso paste (preferably red or white miso)
• 2 tablespoons mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine)
• 1 tablespoon sake (or water if unavailable)
• 1 tablespoon sugar (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional, for acidity)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped green onions (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the eggplant: Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise. Using a knife, score the flesh in a crosshatch pattern, being careful not to cut through the skin. This allows the glaze to penetrate deeper into the eggplant.
2. Cook the eggplant: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat and add the sesame oil. Place the eggplant halves flesh-side down and cook for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Flip the eggplants and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes on the skin side. The eggplant should become soft and tender.
3. Prepare the miso glaze: While the eggplant is cooking, whisk together the miso paste, mirin, sake, sugar, and rice vinegar (if using) in a small bowl. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity as needed.
4. Broil with the glaze: Preheat the oven to broil. Once the eggplants are tender, spread a generous layer of the miso glaze on the cut side of the eggplant. Transfer the eggplants to a baking sheet, and broil in the oven for 2-3 minutes, until the glaze is bubbling and caramelized.
5. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve hot as a side dish or as a main course with steamed rice.

Health Notes:

• Eggplants are low in calories and rich in fiber, making them a healthy option for plant-based meals. The miso used in the glaze provides probiotics, supporting gut health. However, the dish can be high in sodium due to the miso, so it’s best to balance it with low-sodium side dishes or adjust the miso content.

Serving Suggestions:

• Miso Glazed Eggplant pairs well with steamed rice or quinoa, making it a satisfying vegetarian or vegan meal. You can also serve it alongside grilled fish or tofu for a balanced Japanese-inspired meal. A light cucumber salad or miso soup would complement the rich flavors.

Tips:

• Choose Japanese eggplants: Japanese eggplants are smaller and more tender than traditional globe eggplants, making them ideal for this dish.
• Broil carefully: Keep an eye on the eggplant while broiling, as the miso glaze can burn quickly. You want it to caramelize but not scorch.
• Adjust glaze: If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add a bit more sugar. For a saltier flavor, increase the miso.