Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that’s not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly easy to prepare! Our Miso Ginger Grilled Eggplant is the perfect blend of savory miso, zesty ginger, and smoky grilled goodness that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this Asian-inspired recipe promises to elevate your dining experience. With just 35 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll be serving up a stunning dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Dive into this recipe and discover how to turn simple eggplants into a mouthwatering masterpiece!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium eggplants
- 3 tablespoons miso paste
- 2 tablespoons ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the eggplants. Rinse them under cold water to remove any dirt, then slice them in half lengthwise. If desired, you can score the flesh of the eggplants in a crisscross pattern to help the marinade penetrate better.
- Next, in a medium-sized bowl, combine the miso paste, grated ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and olive oil. Whisk the ingredients together until you have a smooth marinade. This mixture will provide a rich umami flavor to the eggplant.
- Take the halved eggplants and place them in a shallow dish or a large resealable plastic bag. Pour the miso ginger marinade over the eggplants, ensuring they are well coated. If using a dish, you can turn the eggplants a few times to ensure even coverage. If using a bag, seal it and gently massage the marinade into the eggplants. Allow the eggplants to marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or longer if you have time (up to 1 hour in the refrigerator for more intense flavor).
- While the eggplants are marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, place it on the stove over medium-high heat.
- Once the grill is hot, remove the eggplants from the marinade, letting any excess marinade drip off. Place the eggplants cut side down on the grill. Grill for about 5-7 minutes until the eggplants have nice grill marks and are tender. If using a grill pan, you can achieve similar results by cooking them for the same amount of time, flipping halfway through.
- After the initial grilling, flip the eggplants over so the skin side is down. Brush any remaining marinade over the cut sides of the eggplants. Continue grilling for another 5-7 minutes, or until they are fully cooked and tender.
- Once the eggplants are done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This will help the flavors settle and the eggplants to cool slightly.
- To serve, place the grilled eggplants on a serving platter. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top for added crunch and flavor. You can also garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro if desired.
- Enjoy your Miso Ginger Grilled Eggplant as a delicious side dish or a main vegetarian entrée!
Tips
- Choose the Right Eggplants: Opt for medium-sized eggplants that feel firm to the touch. Look for glossy skin without blemishes for the best flavor and texture.
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: While 15 minutes is the minimum, letting the eggplants marinate for up to an hour in the refrigerator will intensify the flavors. Plan ahead for a richer taste!
- Grill Marks Matter: To achieve those beautiful grill marks, make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the eggplants on it. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a delightful smoky flavor.
- Use a Grill Pan: If you don’t have an outdoor grill, a grill pan on the stove works wonderfully! Just be sure to keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent burning.
- Garnish Creatively: Don’t skip the sesame seeds! They add a nice crunch and nutty flavor. Consider adding sliced green onions or fresh cilantro for an extra pop of color and freshness.
- Perfect Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or quinoa, making it a fantastic vegetarian main course or a flavorful side dish for grilled meats.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
