Japanese Miso-Glazed Grilled Eggplant (Nasu Dengaku)

Introduction

Nasu Dengaku, or Japanese Miso-Glazed Grilled Eggplant, is a flavorful, smoky, and slightly sweet dish that makes the perfect side or vegetarian main. Using the Arteflame grill, we’ll achieve an even sear and deep flavor by cooking the eggplant to perfection on the large flat griddle cooktop. The natural caramelization and miso glaze create an irresistible umami-packed bite.

Ingredients

• 2 medium Japanese eggplants, sliced lengthwise
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for grilling)
• 2 tbsp white miso paste
• 1 tbsp mirin
• 1 tbsp sake
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp soy sauce
• 1/2 tsp sesame oil
• Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Chopped green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins into the center of the grill.
3. Stack firewood over the oiled napkins and light them.
4. Let the fire burn for about 20 minutes until the flat cooktop is evenly heated.

Step 2: Prepare the Miso Glaze

1. In a small bowl, mix miso paste, mirin, sake, sugar, soy sauce, and sesame oil until smooth.

Step 3: Grill the Eggplant

1. Place the sliced eggplants directly on the flat cooktop, closer to the outer edge where the temperature is more moderate.
2. Brush each slice with melted butter to enhance the flavor and encourage a beautiful caramelization.
3. Grill each side for approximately 5-7 minutes until the eggplant is tender and slightly charred.

Step 4: Apply the Miso Glaze

1. Brush the miso glaze generously onto the grilled eggplant.
2. Allow the glaze to heat up and slightly caramelize for 1-2 minutes.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the eggplant from the grill.
2. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
3. Serve immediately while still warm.

Tips

• Use Japanese eggplants for their tender texture and mild flavor.
• Grill closer to the outer edge of the Arteflame cooktop where the heat is less intense.
• Use butter instead of oil for an enhanced depth of flavor.
• Monitor the glaze carefully to prevent burning.
• Adjust miso glaze sweetness by adding more or less sugar.

Variations

1. Spicy Miso Eggplant: Add 1/2 tsp of chili paste or Sriracha to the glaze for a spicier kick.
2. Honey-Miso Glazed Eggplant: Substitute sugar with honey for a slightly different sweetness.
3. Garlic-Sesame Miso Eggplant: Add 1 minced garlic clove and extra sesame oil to intensify the flavors.
4. Smoky Miso Eggplant: Use smoked miso paste to add a deeper, richer taste.
5. Citrus Miso Eggplant: Add a splash of yuzu or lemon juice for a burst of bright acidity.

Best Pairings

• Steamed jasmine rice
• Grilled miso-glazed salmon
• Chilled sake or Japanese green tea
• Pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast
• Grilled tofu with soy sauce and sesame

Conclusion

Japanese Miso-Glazed Grilled Eggplant is an easy yet flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. Cooked on the Arteflame grill, this recipe takes on an even better taste thanks to perfect caramelization and smoky depth. Try the variations for added excitement, and enjoy this dish as a tasty side or vegetarian main!