A reader asked me what miso paste tastes like, while she has enjoyed miso soup at Japanese restaurants, she couldn’t quite imagine what cooking with miso paste would be like.
So what flavor dimension does miso paste add to a dish? If I had to just choose one single word, I’d say “umami” which is just a fancy foodie term that writers and chefs use. This is a tough one…..but okay, if I couldn’t use that word, I’d say, “tasty.” Even just a teaspoon of miso paste added to a dish (whether it’s a sauce for the asparagus, salad dressing, mashed potatoes or casserole) makes the dish tastier.
Miso has a very deep, complex flavor – salty yet slightly sweet, a little nutty. Lately, instead of adding salt to a dish, I’ll stir in a small spoonful of miso paste.
I need a little help from you all – can you help me describe the taste of miso vs. salt? Maybe it’s easier to use an analogy:
Salt is to Miso…….as _____ is to _____.
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*Why all these miso recipes? I’m developing recipes for Marukome, the makers of Miso & Easy and some of the very best miso paste.
Miso Ginger Asparagus Recipe
This recipe couldn’t be simpler….
Basically, throw the asparagus on a baking sheet and roast. In the meantime, whisk together the remaining ingredients – pour on top when the asparagus is done!
Miso Ginger Asparagus Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound asparagus, ends trimmed
- 1 teaspoon cooking oil (olive, canola or vegetable)
- 2 teaspoons Miso & Easy (or 1 teaspoon miso paste + 1 teaspoon hot water)
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- 1/2 teaspoon roasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375F. Place asparagus on baking sheet and drizzle with cooking oil. Toss to coat. Roast asparagus for 8-10 minutes or until pierces easily with fork. Timing depends on how thick the asparagus spears are.
- While the asparagus is roasting, prepare the ginger miso sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining ingredients until smooth.
- Pour over asparagus and serve.
