If you still think miso is just for miso soup, think again. This versatile food naturally lends itself to many different dishes. Miso is a fermented food, usually made from fermenting soybeans, although I’ve also found rice and chickpea miso as well. It is a staple food in the traditional Japanese diet.
Research in the International Journal of Oncology found that regular miso consumption can help fight lung cancer. Other research suggests it may also help fight breast, colon and liver cancer. Other research found that when eaten as part of a regular diet, miso can help reduce the damaging effects of radiation. Packed with vitamins, minerals, enzymes and probiotics, miso is a delicious superfood that definitely warrants a place in our daily diet.
So, you may be wondering what you can do with miso, other than simply making soup with it. Here are 12 great ways to incorporate miso into your regular diet.
Grain Goodness
Add a couple of tablespoons of miso to the cook water for brown rice, quinoa or other grain. Alternatively, cook the grains and stir in the miso while they are still warm.
Buttery Spread
Over low heat, melt a cup of coconut oil. Once melted, remove from the heat and stir in a couple of tablespoons of miso. Allow to cool, stirring occasionally to ensure even distribution of the miso bits. Use in place of butter when you want a rich, slightly salty, slightly sweet taste.
Great Glaze
In a small bowl mix together 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup, 2 tablespoons miso (I prefer dark varieties for this recipe), a small fresh chili of your choice (minced) and a tablespoon of olive oil. This Maple Miso Glaze works beautifully on slices of tofu (choose organic only) or over roasted vegetables. For the tofu, cut into ½” thick slices and coat with the glaze then bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 to 25 minutes. Top with green onion and minced chilies, if desired.
Vegan Crème Fraiche
Soak raw, unsalted cashews in water over night. Blend with some miso and just enough of the soak water to produce a thick and creamy cream. Pour over your favorite grains or cooked vegetables.
Miso Vinaigrette
In a medium-sized jar add: 2/3 cups olive oil, 1/3 cup rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons miso, 1 teaspoon agave or maple syrup. Shake all ingredients together in a jar or blend with a hand blender. Toss with greens and serve.
Salad Dressing Booster:
Instead of using mustard to thicken your homemade salad dressing, use miso. It thickens and emulsifies salad dressings, giving them a creamy and flavorful consistency.
Vegan Sour Cream Sensation
Add some miso and lemon juice to raw, unsalted cashews soaked in water over night. Blend together until smooth, adding only enough water to reach a sour cream consistency. Pour over baked potatoes, add to your favorite taco or use as you would traditional varieties of sour cream.
Green Greatness
Saute your favorite leafy greens in miso, garlic, olive oil, and rice wine vinegar for great greens. This cooking method adds depth and umami flavor to your greens, making them a standout side dish.
Veggie Burger Boost
Spread a thin layer of miso on your next veggie burger for a delicious, salty, rich flavor boost. The miso adds a savory element to the burger, complementing the other flavors and textures.
Mayo or Aioli
Adding miso to your favorite aioli or mayo is a quick and easy way to elevate its flavor profile. Puree some miso with a small amount of water and stir it into your condiment of choice. Spread it on sandwiches, subs, or add it to wraps.
Miso Mustard
Puree some miso with a small amount of water and stir it into your favorite hot mustard for a unique taste treat. Use it as you would regular mustard for a little something extra in your sandwich or as a dip for pretzels.
Stewed Up
Add a tablespoon or two of miso to your favorite stew for a rich flavor boost. The miso adds the depth and umami flavor which is perfect for a stew.
