20 Savory Miso Recipes for Flavorful Meals

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Written By Lorraine Koller

DIY expert, architect, 20+ years in crafting, home improvement, and interior design.

When it comes to adding depth and umami flavor to dishes, few ingredients can rival the savory allure of miso. This fermented soybean paste has been a staple in Japanese cuisine for centuries, and its rich, slightly sweet flavor has won over chefs and home cooks alike. Whether you’re looking to elevate a simple salad or create a hearty, comforting bowl of noodles, miso is the perfect ingredient to have in your culinary toolkit.

In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 savory miso recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic dishes like Miso Glazed Salmon and Miso Ramen with Soft-Boiled Egg, to innovative creations like Miso Butter Roasted Chicken and Miso Chocolate Brownies, there’s something for everyone in this collection of mouthwatering recipes.

Miso Glazed Salmon

Elevate your salmon game with this sweet and savory miso glaze, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup white miso paste
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and ginger.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the miso glaze evenly over both sides of the salmon.
5. Season with black pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Miso Ramen with Soft-Boiled Egg

A rich and savory Japanese-inspired noodle dish, elevated by the creamy texture of a soft-boiled egg.

Ingredients:

– 1 package ramen noodles
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons miso paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large egg
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a separate pot, combine broth, miso paste, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Meanwhile, boil an egg in salted water for 6-7 minutes, or until the whites are set and the yolks are still slightly runny.
4. Divide the noodles among bowls. Ladle the hot broth mixture over the noodles.
5. Place a soft-boiled egg on top of each serving. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Miso Butter Roasted Chicken

Elevate your roasted chicken game with the savory fusion of miso and butter, resulting in a richly flavored and tender main course.

Ingredients:

– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp white miso paste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, miso paste, garlic, and thyme until well combined.
3. Rub the miso butter mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Miso Soup with Tofu and Wakame

A classic Japanese soup recipe that combines the savory flavor of miso paste with the tender texture of tofu and the nutty goodness of wakame seaweed.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups dashi broth (or vegetable broth)
– 2 tablespoons miso paste
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1/4 cup wakame seaweed, rehydrated and chopped
– 1 green onion, thinly sliced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine dashi broth and miso paste. Whisk until the miso is fully dissolved.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add tofu and wakame seaweed. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the tofu is heated through and the wakame is tender.
4. Stir in grated ginger and green onion.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional green onion if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Miso Caramel Cookies

Rich, chewy cookies infused with the savory umami flavor of miso and sweet caramel.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure miso paste
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Caramel bits (about 1 cup)
– Optional: flaky sea salt for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by miso paste and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in caramel bits.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.

Miso Eggplant Stir-Fry

Miso Eggplant Stir-Fry Recipe
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A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the rich taste of miso paste with the tender eggplant, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of savory miso, sweet soy sauce, and crunchy sesame seeds will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients:

– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons miso paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the eggplant slices and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in miso paste, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Add the cooked eggplant back into the pan and stir to combine with the miso glaze.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Miso Marinated Black Cod

Experience the rich flavors of Japan with this simple yet impressive recipe for Miso Marinated Black Cod.

Ingredients:

– 4 black cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup white miso paste
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake or dry white wine
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, soy sauce, sake or dry white wine, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and grated ginger until smooth.
2. Place the cod fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Gently turn to coat evenly.
3. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the cod from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the cod on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with sesame oil.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Miso Mushroom Pasta

This recipe combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the savory taste of miso, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy pasta dish.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g. pappardelle or spaghetti)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp white miso paste
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in miso paste and vegetable broth. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta with mushroom mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Miso-Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Elevate your Brussels sprouts game with this sweet and savory miso glaze, perfect for a quick and easy side dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
3. Add water to the miso mixture and whisk until smooth.
4. Place the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle with the miso glaze and toss to coat.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Miso Caramel Popcorn

Elevate your snack game with this unique and addictive recipe that combines the savory flavors of miso paste with the richness of caramel.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 teaspoons white miso paste
– Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. Pop the popcorn kernels according to package instructions.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the corn syrup, sugar, and water. Place over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and whisk in the butter and miso paste until smooth.
6. Pour the caramel mixture over the popped popcorn and toss until evenly coated.
7. Sprinkle with salt to taste.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including popping time)

Yield: 4-6 servings

Enjoy your delicious Miso Caramel Popcorn!

Miso Buttered Corn on the Cob

Elevate your summer gatherings with this sweet and savory twist on classic corn on the cob.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon white miso paste
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, miso paste, and honey until smooth.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto each ear of corn.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, or until slightly charred.
6. Serve warm, slathered with additional butter if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Miso Tahini Salad Dressing

This creamy dressing combines the nutty flavor of tahini with the savory umami taste of miso, perfect for topping your favorite salads.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, miso paste, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and water.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste, blending until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

Miso and Ginger Pork Chops

This recipe combines the savory flavors of miso paste with the spicy kick of ginger to create a deliciously unique pork chop dish.

Ingredients:

– 4 pork chops (1 inch thick)
– 2 tbsp white miso paste
– 2 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, ginger, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and chicken broth.
3. Place pork chops in a shallow dish and brush the miso glaze evenly over both sides of each chop.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 2-3 minutes on each side.
5. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Miso Sweet Potato Mash

Miso Sweet Potato Mash Recipe

Sweet potatoes meet savory miso in this unique and delicious mash recipe.

Ingredients:
• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons white miso paste
• 1/4 cup butter or non-dairy alternative
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream or non-dairy milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together miso paste and butter until smooth.
4. Add roasted sweet potatoes, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mash until combined.
5. Stir in heavy cream or non-dairy milk until desired consistency is reached.
6. Serve warm.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Miso Chocolate Brownies

Elevate your brownie game with the umami flavor of miso, perfectly balanced by dark chocolate and a hint of coffee. This unique combination will have you hooked from the first bite.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups (250g) sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon instant coffee powder
– 1/4 cup (30g) white miso paste
– 1 and 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Melt butter and sugar in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and stir in cocoa powder, coffee powder, and miso paste until smooth.
4. Let cool slightly, then whisk in eggs one at a time.
5. Add flour and salt; stir until just combined.
6. Stir in chocolate chips and walnuts (if using).
7. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
9. Let cool completely before cutting and serving.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Miso-Glazed Tofu Skewers

Elevate your snack game with these sweet and savory miso-glazed tofu skewers. Perfect for a quick bite or as an appetizer, they’re sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons of white miso paste
– 2 tablespoons of maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– 10-12 bamboo skewers

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, maple syrup, soy sauce, and rice vinegar until smooth.
3. Add the grated ginger and whisk until well combined.
4. Thread the tofu cubes onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Brush the miso glaze all over the tofu, making sure to coat evenly.
6. Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the tofu is golden brown and caramelized.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Miso Caesar Dressing

Elevate your salad game with this savory and umami-rich Miso Caesar Dressing! This innovative take on the classic Caesar dressing combines the depth of miso paste with the richness of Parmesan cheese.

Ingredients:

– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine miso paste, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and lemon juice.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Cooking Time:

– Prep time: 5 minutes
– Total time: 35 minutes

Miso Udon Noodle Soup

Warm up with a comforting bowl of Miso Udon Noodle Soup, infused with the savory flavors of Japan. This easy-to-make recipe combines tender udon noodles, rich miso broth, and fresh vegetables for a nourishing and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 package udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in white miso paste and soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked udon noodles to the pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Miso and Maple Roasted Carrots

Elevate your roasted carrot game with this sweet and savory recipe, featuring the umami flavor of miso and the richness of maple syrup.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 carrots, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together miso paste, maple syrup, and olive oil until smooth.
3. Add the chopped carrots and toss to coat evenly with the miso-maple mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread the carrot mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping them halfway through.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Miso Banana Bread

A twist on traditional banana bread, this Miso Banana Bread combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the savory umami flavor of miso paste.

Ingredients:

– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup white sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup miso paste (white or yellow)
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, white sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Add mashed bananas and miso paste; whisk until smooth.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes

Summary

Discover the versatility of miso with these 20 savory and sweet recipe ideas! From classic Japanese dishes like Miso Ramen with Soft-Boiled Egg and Miso Soup with Tofu and Wakame, to innovative twists on comfort food like Miso Butter Roasted Chicken and Miso Sweet Potato Mash. You’ll also find unique desserts like Miso Caramel Cookies and Miso Chocolate Brownies. Plus, get creative with savory snacks like Miso-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Miso Caramel Popcorn. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious foodie, these recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.

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