5 Delicious Ways to Use Miso

After last week’s episode on the benefits of miso, perhaps you were inspired to buy a big tub of it at the market this week. However, if you’re not accustomed to cooking with miso, you may be at a bit of a loss with what to do with it. 

Fortunately, miso has a nice, long shelf-life. Like most fermented foods, the beneficial bacteria act as natural preservatives. The other good news is that miso is a remarkably versatile ingredient that can add flavor to a number of dishes. Here are some ideas:

Miso Dressing

Whisk together 1 tablespoon of miso and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Slowly whisk in 1/4 cup of tahini and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Thin with warm water to desired consistency.

This dressing is particularly good with kale salad or drizzled over roasted cauliflower or butternut squash. 

Asian Slaw

Blend 2 tablespoons of miso with 1/4 cup of seasoned rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon each of grated ginger and sesame oil, and 1/3 cup of reduced fat mayo. Toss with shredded Napa cabbage or a bagged coleslaw mix, and garnish with slivered almonds and scallions.

Miso Burgers

Mix 1/4 cup of miso with 1 1/2 pounds of lean, ground meat and a handful of chopped mint or cilantro. Form into burgers and grill. Serve with Asian Slaw, above.

See also: Tips for a Healthier Cookout

Miso Butter

Blend 2 tablespoons of miso into a stick of softened butter, and melt onto steamed fish or vegetables. Or, spread it on a slice of sourdough bread, and cover it with a layer of alfalfa sprouts or thinly sliced radishes.

See also: What Are the Health Benefits of Sourdough?

Maple Miso Glaze

Whisk 2 tablespoons of miso with 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard. Use as a glaze on grilled salmon, pork, tofu, or mushrooms.

Do you have favorite or unusual ways to use miso? Please share them in the comments section below!

Miso image courtesy of Shutterstock.