All products featured on Self are independently selected by our editors.
However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
Think white miso in a lemon-herb marinade for tofu feta, sprinkled on a pinto bean tortilla salad.
cheche22/Getty Images
Or red miso whisked into reserved pasta cooking water for a borlotti bean and bitter greens pasta dish.
So I spoke to some pros about the amazing ingredient.
Its not an ingredient thats really comparable in American cuisine.
(Generally, a darker color indicates a longer fermentation period and more intense flavor.)
Miso is a magic flavor booster in Japanese cooking, Chen says.
it’s possible for you to literally use miso in everything.
Kyogoku believes that misos incredible versatility is tied to its roots as a keyseasoningingredient.
So many American chefs are into it now, she says.
And it’s probably the best way to learn about how to use the ingredient in your home cooking.
It is inspiring to see non-Japanese cooks starting to embrace the endless possibilities of miso, Chen adds.
Kyogoku likes white miso for creamier or lighter dishes, and red miso for spicier or heartier dishes.
A little goes a long way, Le says.
Think rice and noodle dishes, sauces,soups, meat, fish, and more.
(Kyogoku recommends diluting it with a little water or fat first.)
Le suggestsseasoning soupsand stews with the umami bomb.
Thinkmiso chicken noodle soupor miso beef stew, or even miso chili con carne, he says.
And again, its great in all sorts of bean and legume dishes.
Le and Chen both love using miso butter, which is just as simple and delicious as it sounds.
you could also try mixing miso with butter whenever a recipe calls for butter, Le says.
It helps break down proteins and tenderize them, Kyogoku says.
Check out Chens basic recipe for anall-purpose miso saucethat can work as a marinade or glaze.
Salad dressings with miso are really delicious, Kyogoku says.
Try ChensMiso Tahini DressingandSweet Miso Dressing, or Le’s recipe forMiso Mustard Dressing.
Misos saltiness and savoriness adds a beautiful complexity to desserts and baked goods.
Chen recommends stirring a dollop into cookies or browniesshe has a recipe forMiso Butter Cookies.
