Easy Miso Aubergine Nasu Dengaku

Miso Glazed Aubergine

Nasu Dengaku is a classic Japanese side dish that features grilled or broiled eggplant (nasu) topped with a sweet and savory miso glaze (dengaku). This version is slightly different in that the eggplant is roasted in the oven until soft and tender. If you are a fan of rich umami with a hint of sweetness, you will love this dish! It’s one of the few ways my kids (and I) will eat this nutritious vegetable. This miso glaze is slightly adapted from my miso tofu recipe and can even be tossed with pasta! Say hello to miso pasta, your go-to weeknight dinners that’s made with pantry staples and minimal effort.

Ingredients

I am highlighting just the ones that need further explanation. The complete list is in the recipe card below.

Aubergines (Eggplants) – I am using the most commonly found globe eggplants but you can use any type. The Japanese eggplants are skinnier and smaller so you will need to adjust the cooking time. Miso paste – Infuses SO much umami flavor to the dish. White miso paste (shiro miso) will work better as it is lighter and sweeter in flavor, but you can use red miso if that’s all you can find. Also look for reduced sodium paste, especially if intending to share with your baby or toddler. Peanut butter – helps balance the salty flavor of miso paste and imparts a nutty flavor and creaminess. You can also use your favorite nut butter like, like almond butter, tahini, or sunflower seed butter if peanut-free. Rice vinegar – its tanginess helps cut through the richness of the miso paste Sesame oil – this is one of my favorite Asian cooking ingredient! Adds a rich, nutty flavor to the dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Tips for Success

Be really careful not to slice through the skin of aubergines. Create deep cuts while keeping the skin intact. Take your time making sure the miso mixture gets distributed throughout the aubergine’s crevices. If you desire a crispier exterior, place under the broiler for the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some different ways to savor and incorporate miso-glazed aubergine into your meals:

As a side dish – serve as a delicious side dish alongside roasted chicken, beef, tofu, or seafood, such as teriyaki salmon or shrimp. In a bowl – create a nourishing bowl by combining the miso-glazed eggplant with cooked quinoa, white rice, lentils, or pasta. Add vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, broccoli, bok choy, cherry tomatoes, and top it off with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. In sandwiches or wraps – use the sliced eggplant as a filling for sandwiches, wraps (try these lentil wraps), or pitas. Add some lettuce, and a drizzle of tahini or yogurt sauce. In salads – chop the eggplant into bite-sized pieces and toss them into salads with a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Add as a topping for sushi bake. On pizza – makes for a delicious topping for this protein pizza. As a dip or spread – puree and use as a dip for pita bread, tortilla chips, or fresh vegetables. You can also spread it on crackers or toast for an easy snack for toddlers, kids, and adults!

For Babies and Toddlers

For babies, you can mash or puree the eggplants and stir into oatmeal, quinoa, or spread onto toast. You can reduce the amount of miso paste to 1 tablespoon to cut back on sodium. But I wouldn’t worry too much as the recipe is for the entire dish, and your baby will only eat a small portion at a time. For toddlers, slice into long strip or cut out the cubes so it’s easy to eat.

Storage

It is best to enjoy miso aubergine immediately, but if you have any leftovers, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 375°F until heated through.