Miso Salmon Recipe: A Perfect Blend of Umami Goodness & Bonus of 4 twists
Miso salmon offers a rich umami flavor, blending sweet and savory in a caramelized glaze. This Japanese-inspired dish is simple to make, quick, and perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Equipment
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil
- Shallow dish or zip-top bag
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets skin on or off, about 6 oz each
- ¼ cup white miso paste shiro miso
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce low sodium
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon water if needed to thin the marinade
- Sesame seeds optional for garnish
- Sliced green onions optional for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Miso Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together miso paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, ginger, and garlic until smooth. Add water if needed to thin the mixture.
- Marinate the Salmon: Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the fillets, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Marinate for at least 10-30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the fridge for a deeper flavor.
- Preheat the Oven or Broiler: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking, or preheat the broiler for a crispier finish.
- Bake or Broil the Salmon: Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes or broil for 6-8 minutes, keeping an eye on it to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, let the salmon rest for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions, and serve with desired sides.
Notes
- Choosing Your Miso: White miso is mild and sweet, perfect for this dish. Yellow and red miso offer stronger flavors if you prefer more intensity.
- Sweetener Options: Honey or maple syrup work well, but agave or brown sugar can also be substituted.
- Skin-On or Skin-Off: Either works, though skin-on adds a crispy layer under the broiler.
Twists and Variations
- Spicy twist: Add 1 teaspoon of sriracha or gochujang for a kick.
- Citrus flair: Add 1 tablespoon of orange or lime zest for a zesty contrast.
- Herbaceous touch: Add 1 tablespoon of finely chopped cilantro, basil, or mint.
- Smoky surprise: Add ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika or chipotle powder for subtle smokiness.
Tips for Perfecting
- Marination Matters: Marinate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
- Watch the Broiler: The sugar in the marinade can burn quickly, so monitor closely.
- Serving Size: If making for a group, cut fillets into smaller portions for even marination and cooking.
