Nasu Dengaku: Sweet Miso Glazed Eggplant
Nasu Dengaku is a popular Japanese dish featuring tender, roasted eggplant coated in a rich, savory-sweet miso glaze. This recipe captures the authentic taste of my favorite Japanese restaurant’s version, perfect for sharing as each guest gets their own eggplant half to enjoy. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a wonderful addition to your dinner table or as part of a larger Japanese-themed feast. Garnished with sesame seeds, this eggplant is a delightful way to enjoy the natural umami flavors of this versatile vegetable.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
gingerroot
1 (tablespoon, minced)
garlic cloves
3 (crushed (suit to taste))
soy sauce
3 (tablespoons)
seasoned rice vinegar
1 (tablespoon)
sesame oil
1/2 (teaspoon)
brown sugar
1 (tablespoon)
cornstarch
1/4 (teaspoon)
eggplants
2 (medium)
oil
2 (tablespoons)
water
1/2 (cup)
sesame seeds
1 (tablespoon (optional))
Instructions
1
In a small bowl, mix together the minced ginger, crushed garlic, soy sauce, seasoned rice vinegar, sesame oil, brown sugar, and cornstarch. Stir well to combine and set aside.
2
Prepare the eggplants by washing them thoroughly. Cut off the tops and slice each eggplant in half lengthwise. If necessary, trim the eggplant halves to ensure they fit comfortably in a 12-inch skillet.
3
Using a sharp knife, create a crisscross pattern on the flesh side of each eggplant half, taking care not to cut all the way through the skin. This pattern will help the glaze penetrate the eggplant and enhance its flavor.
4
In the skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Gently lay two of the eggplant halves cut-side down in the hot oil. Add 1/4 cup of water to the skillet, then cover it with a lid. Allow the eggplant to cook for 7-10 minutes, or until lightly browned and tender.
5
Carefully remove the eggplant halves from the skillet and set them aside. Repeat this process with the remaining two halves and the additional tablespoon of oil.
6
After cooking all the eggplant, pour the miso glaze mixture into the skillet. Cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
7
Return the eggplant halves to the skillet, placing them cut-side up. Generously pour the thickened glaze over the crisscrossed side of each eggplant. Allow them to simmer for another 2 minutes, ensuring they are well-coated.
8
For a final touch, sprinkle sesame seeds on top of the glazed eggplants before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Nasu Dengaku?
Nasu Dengaku is a popular Japanese dish featuring tender, roasted eggplant coated in a rich, savory-sweet miso-style glaze.
What are the primary flavors of this dish?
This dish is known for its rich, savory-sweet profile and natural umami flavors.
How many eggplants are needed for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 medium-sized eggplants.
How should the eggplants be prepared before cooking?
Wash the eggplants, cut off the tops, and slice each eggplant in half lengthwise.
Why is a crisscross pattern cut into the eggplant flesh?
Scoring the eggplant in a crisscross pattern helps the glaze penetrate the flesh and enhances the flavor.
What ingredients are in the glaze mixture?
The glaze is made from minced ginger, crushed garlic, soy sauce, seasoned rice vinegar, sesame oil, brown sugar, and cornstarch.
What size skillet is recommended for this recipe?
A 12-inch skillet is recommended to ensure the eggplant halves fit comfortably.
How do I cook the eggplant in the skillet?
Heat oil over medium-high heat, place eggplant cut-side down, add water, and cover with a lid to steam.
How much water is added to the skillet during cooking?
You should add 1/4 cup of water to the skillet for each batch of eggplants.
How long does the eggplant need to cook initially?
The eggplant should cook for 7-10 minutes until lightly browned and tender.
When do I add the glaze to the pan?
After cooking all eggplant halves and removing them, pour the glaze mixture into the skillet to thicken.
How long should the sauce cook to thicken?
Cook the glaze over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
What is the final cooking step for the eggplant?
Return the eggplant to the skillet cut-side up, pour the glaze over them, and simmer for another 2 minutes.
What garnish is used for Nasu Dengaku?
The dish is typically garnished with sesame seeds.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is categorized as vegetarian.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to make 4 servings.
What should I do if the eggplant halves are too large for my pan?
You can trim the eggplant halves to ensure they fit comfortably in your 12-inch skillet.
Can I adjust the amount of garlic?
Yes, the recipe suggests 3 cloves but mentions you can suit the amount to your taste.
What type of vinegar is used in the glaze?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of seasoned rice vinegar.
What role does cornstarch play in the recipe?
Cornstarch is used as a thickening agent for the miso glaze.
How much soy sauce is required?
The recipe requires 3 tablespoons of soy sauce.
Is fresh ginger used in this recipe?
Yes, it uses 1 tablespoon of minced gingerroot.
How much oil is needed in total for frying?
A total of 2 tablespoons of oil is used, split between two cooking batches.
Can I use different types of eggplant?
The recipe specifies 2 medium eggplants, which are common for this style of dish.
What is the calorie count for this dish?
Calorie information is not provided in the source data.
Is Nasu Dengaku served as a side or main dish?
It is tagged as a side dish, though it can be part of a larger Japanese-themed feast.
How much brown sugar is in the glaze?
The glaze contains 1 tablespoon of brown sugar.
Is the sesame oil for cooking or the glaze?
The 1/2 teaspoon of sesame oil is mixed directly into the glaze mixture.
Should the eggplant be cooked cut-side up or down first?
The eggplant should be placed cut-side down in the hot oil initially.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 11 ingredients in total, including the optional sesame seeds.