japanese miso eggplant

How To Prepare/Cook Japanese Miso Glazed Eggplant (Nasu Dengaku)

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Asia CuisineDietaryGluten FreeLow-CarbLunchRecipesVeganVegetarianWorld Cuisines

Nasu Dengaku is a classic Japanese dish featuring roasted or grilled eggplant brushed with a sweet and savory miso glaze. This dish has been enjoyed in Japan for centuries, originating from Buddhist temple cuisine (Shojin Ryori), which focuses on plant-based ingredients. The combination of umami-rich miso, mirin, and sesame makes it a flavorful and nutritious dish that is both simple and elegant.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium Japanese eggplants (or 1 large globe eggplant)
  • 2 tbsp miso paste (white or red miso)
  • 1 tbsp mirin (or maple syrup for a non-alcoholic alternative)
  • 1 tbsp sake (or water as a substitute)
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp water (for thinning the glaze, if needed)
  • Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
  • Thinly sliced green onions, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or set a grill to medium heat.
  2. Prepare the eggplant: Cut eggplants in half lengthwise. Score the flesh in a crisscross pattern (without cutting through the skin) to help absorb the glaze.
  3. Roast the eggplant: Brush with sesame oil and place cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 20 minutes until soft. (Alternatively, grill for 8-10 minutes per side until tender.)
  4. Prepare the miso glaze: In a small saucepan over low heat, mix miso, mirin, sake, sugar, and water. Stir until smooth and slightly thickened (2-3 minutes).
  5. Glaze the eggplant: Remove eggplants from the oven, flip them cut-side up, and brush generously with the miso glaze.
  6. Broil for 2-3 minutes: Place under a broiler for a slightly caramelized finish. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
  7. Garnish & serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve warm.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~120
  • Protein: ~3g
  • Carbohydrates: ~15g
  • Fiber: ~4g
  • Iron: ~1.5mg

Benefits

  • ✔ Rich in antioxidants – Eggplant contains nasunin, which protects brain cells.
    ✔ Supports gut health – Miso is a fermented food rich in probiotics.
    ✔ Low-calorie & fiber-rich – Aids in digestion and weight management.
    ✔ Heart-healthy – Eggplant helps lower cholesterol and blood pressure.

Tips

  • 💡 Use Japanese eggplants – They have a sweeter, less bitter flavor.
    💡 For extra smoky flavor, grill the eggplant instead of roasting.
    💡 Make it gluten-free – Use gluten-free miso and tamari instead of soy sauce.
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