Save Savor the deep, savory-sweet flavors of Japanese-inspired cuisine with these Miso-Glazed Eggplant Steaks. Thick rounds of eggplant are roasted until they reach a golden, tender perfection, then finished with a glossy glaze that caramelizes into a rich, umami-packed crust. This dish transforms simple vegetables into a sophisticated and satisfying vegetarian main course.
Save The magic happens in the oven, where the heat softens the eggplant's flesh while the miso glaze—a blend of mirin, garlic, and ginger—thickens and bubbles. Each bite offers a harmonious balance of salty, sweet, and aromatic notes, making it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
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
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2
- Arrange eggplant slices on the sheet. Brush lightly with sesame oil and sprinkle with a little salt.
- Step 3
- Roast for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the eggplant is soft and starting to brown.
- Step 4
- Meanwhile, whisk together all glaze ingredients (miso paste, mirin, soy sauce, syrup, oil, vinegar, garlic, and ginger) in a small bowl.
- Step 5
- Remove eggplant from oven, and brush the tops generously with the prepared miso glaze.
- Step 6
- Return to oven and roast 8–10 more minutes, or until the glaze is bubbling and caramelized.
- Step 7
- Transfer eggplant steaks to plates. Sprinkle with green onions, sesame seeds, and cilantro if using. Serve hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For an extra bit of char and smoky flavor, you can broil the glazed eggplant for 1–2 minutes at the very end. Keep a close eye on it to ensure the sugar in the glaze does not burn.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To keep the dish strictly vegan, use maple syrup or agave instead of honey. If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle red chili flakes into the glaze or over the finished steaks. For those following a gluten-free diet, substitute tamari for soy sauce and ensure your miso paste is certified gluten-free.
Serviervorschläge
These savory steaks are best served alongside steamed jasmine rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious glaze. They also pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad or sautéed bok choy for a complete, balanced meal.
Save Whether you are a long-time fan of eggplant or looking for a new way to enjoy this versatile vegetable, these miso-glazed steaks are sure to impress with their silky texture and bold umami profile. Simple to prepare yet deeply flavorful, they are a true celebration of plant-based cooking.
Recipe Guide
- → What type of miso is best for the glaze?
White miso paste is preferred for a mild, slightly sweet flavor that caramelizes well without overpowering the eggplant.
- → Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, by using tamari instead of soy sauce and ensuring the miso paste is gluten-free, this dish suits gluten-free diets.
- → How do I prevent the eggplant from becoming soggy?
Roasting the eggplant slices uncovered at a high temperature allows excess moisture to evaporate, resulting in tender yet firm steaks.
- → What can I serve alongside these miso-glazed eggplant steaks?
They pair beautifully with steamed rice, quinoa, or a crisp green salad to balance the rich umami flavors.
- → Is it possible to add a spicy kick to this dish?
Absolutely, sprinkle chili flakes over the glaze before the final roasting to introduce gentle heat without overpowering the glaze.
- → Can I veganize the glaze completely?
Yes, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave syrup to keep the glaze plant-based without sacrificing sweetness.