Miso-Glazed Eggplant Harmony

Savor the rich, umami flavors of miso-glazed eggplant, perfectly caramelized for a delightful single-serving treat.

⏱️ Cooking Time: 25 minutes | 🍽️ Servings: 1

Instructions

1. 1.
   Begin by preparing the eggplant. Slice it into 1/2-inch rounds and lightly sprinkle salt over them. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture and bitterness. This step enhances the flavor and texture. Rinse the slices and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any residual salt.
2. 2.
   In a small bowl, whisk together the miso paste, soy sauce, and mirin. This creates a savory and sweet glaze full of umami. The mixture should be smooth and slightly thickened. Taste the glaze and adjust the ratio if needed, keeping it balanced between salty and sweet.
3. 3.
   Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the sesame oil. Once the oil is hot but not smoking, arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they start to turn golden brown and become tender. Turn the heat down to medium if they brown too quickly, ensuring they cook evenly through the center.
4. 4.
   Once the eggplants are golden brown and tender, reduce the heat to medium-low and pour the miso glaze over them, making sure each slice is coated. Allow the glaze to caramelize slightly, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning, and ensure every piece is well coated and glossy.
5. 5.
   Serve the glazed eggplants warm, drizzled with any remaining sauce from the pan. They can be garnished with chopped scallions or sesame seeds for an extra touch. If the sauce thickens too much or sticks, deglaze the pan with a splash of water and stir quickly. This dish is perfect alone or as a side to steamed rice.