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Remember that time when I tried to make babaganoush for a potluck? Total disaster. The eggplant was undercooked, smoky (but not in a good way), and the whole thing was just…sad. I vowed then and there to conquer eggplant. And boy, did I ever! This Miso Glazed Eggplant Dip isn't just good; it’s an experience. It’s the umami bomb you didn't know you needed in your life. Forget bland dips and boring appetizers – this recipe is about to become your new go-to for parties, snacks, or just a cozy night in. Trust me, even eggplant skeptics (like my brother, who once said eggplant was 'nature's packing peanut') will be begging for more. Its truly yummy, and thats coming from someone who's had their share of kitchen fails!
What sets this dip apart? It's the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory. The miso glaze caramelizes beautifully under the broiler, giving the eggplant a rich, deep flavor that's simply irresistible. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make. We're talking minimal ingredients, simple steps, and maximum flavor payoff. You don’t need to be a culinary genius to nail this recipe – just a love for delicious food and a willingness to try something new. I've made this for countless get-togethers, and it disappears faster than free donuts at an office meeting. Seriously, prepare to be amazed at how quickly this dip becomes a crowd favorite. Last thanksgiving, I almost didn't get any! My crazy Aunt Janice ate most of it, ha ha!
Elevate your appetizer game with this incredibly flavorful Miso Glazed Eggplant Dip! It's a perfect blend of smoky, sweet, and savory, that's sure to impress your friends and family.
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield:4 servings
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
Preheat your broiler: Position an oven rack about 6 inches below the broiler and preheat on high. Keep a close eye, broilers can be feisty!
Prepare the eggplant: Slice the eggplant in half lengthwise. Score the flesh in a crosshatch pattern, being careful not to cut through the skin. This helps it cook evenly and absorb the glaze.
Make the miso glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the miso paste, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and grated ginger. Feel free to adjust the honey to your liking, depending on how sweet you want the glaze.
Glaze the eggplant: Brush the miso glaze generously over the cut sides of the eggplant halves, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies created by the scoring.
Broil the eggplant: Place the eggplant halves, cut-side up, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (for easier cleanup). Broil for 10-15 minutes, or until the eggplant is soft and the glaze is deeply caramelized and bubbly. Watch it closely to prevent burning – every broiler is different!
Cool slightly: Let the eggplant cool slightly before handling. The flesh will be very hot!
Scoop out the flesh: Using a spoon, scoop out the cooked eggplant flesh, leaving the skin behind. Discard the skin.
Blend the dip: Place the scooped eggplant flesh in a food processor or blender. Add the lemon juice and blend until smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until you reach your desired consistency. I like mine super smooth!
Taste and adjust: Taste the dip and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more lemon juice for brightness, a pinch of salt if it needs it, or a drizzle more sesame oil for richness.
Garnish and serve: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and some thinly sliced green onions. Serve with crackers, pita bread, crudités, or anything else you like to dip!
Enjoy! This dip is best served warm or at room temperature. You can even make it ahead of time and chill it – the flavors will meld beautifully.
📝 Notes
For a smokier flavor, try grilling the eggplant instead of broiling.
Add a clove of minced garlic to the blender for extra flavor.
If you don't have rice vinegar, apple cider vinegar works as a substitute.
Serve with toasted sesame crackers for an amazing compliment!