Save Experience the perfect fusion of flavors with these Miso-Glazed Eggplant Steaks. Thick rounds of eggplant are roasted until golden and tender, then finished with a savory-sweet miso glaze that caramelizes beautifully. This dish delivers a silky, umami-packed vegetarian main that is as satisfying as it is elegant.
Save The secret to this dish lies in the balance of the glaze. By combining white miso with mirin, maple syrup, and aromatic ginger and garlic, you create a complex sauce that enhances the natural sweetness of the roasted eggplant. It is a fantastic centerpiece for any plant-based meal.
Ingredients
- Eggplant: 2 large eggplants, cut into 1-inch thick rounds
- Miso Glaze: 3 tbsp white miso paste, 2 tbsp mirin (or dry sherry), 1 tbsp soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free), 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1 tsp rice vinegar, 1 garlic clove (minced), 1 tsp freshly grated ginger
- Garnish: 2 green onions (thinly sliced), 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds, 1 small handful cilantro leaves (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Prep the Oven
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2. Initial Roasting
- Arrange eggplant slices on the sheet. Brush lightly with sesame oil and sprinkle with a little salt. Roast for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the eggplant is soft and starting to brown.
- 3. Mix the Glaze
- Meanwhile, whisk together all glaze ingredients (miso, mirin, soy sauce, maple syrup, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger) in a small bowl.
- 4. Glaze the Eggplant
- Remove eggplant from oven, brush tops generously with the miso glaze.
- 5. Final Bake
- Return to oven and roast 8–10 more minutes, or until glaze is bubbling and caramelized.
- 6. Finish and Serve
- Transfer eggplant steaks to plates. Sprinkle with green onions, sesame seeds, and cilantro if using. Serve hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For an extra layer of texture and char, you can broil the glazed eggplant for 1–2 minutes at the very end of the cooking process. Be sure to watch it closely, as the sugars in the glaze can burn quickly. Using a pastry brush ensures the glaze reaches every crevice of the eggplant for maximum flavor.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is highly adaptable. To keep it strictly vegan, simply use maple syrup or agave instead of honey. For a gluten-free version, replace the soy sauce with tamari and confirm your miso paste is gluten-free. If you enjoy spicy food, try adding a pinch of red chili flakes to the glaze mixture.
Serviervorschläge
These savory miso-glazed steaks are best served hot. Pair them with a side of steamed jasmine rice or nutty quinoa to balance the rich glaze. A fresh green salad or lightly sautéed greens also makes a wonderful accompaniment to round out the meal.
Save Whether served as a main dish or a substantial side, these Miso-Glazed Eggplant Steaks offer a sophisticated blend of Japanese-inspired flavors. Each bite provides a delicious combination of sweet, salty, and savory notes that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What kind of eggplant works best?
Large globe eggplants sliced into thick rounds hold up well, roasting evenly while absorbing the glaze flavors.
- → Can I make this gluten-free?
Use tamari soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce and ensure the miso paste is gluten-free for a safe variation.
- → How can I get a caramelized finish?
Roast the glazed eggplant at high temperature, and optionally broil for 1–2 minutes for extra char and caramelization.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Steamed rice, quinoa, or fresh green salads complement the rich miso flavors perfectly for a balanced meal.
- → Can the glaze be adjusted for sweetness?
Yes, maple syrup can be swapped with agave or honey depending on dietary preferences and desired sweetness level.