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Easy Japanese Miso Salmon

This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or meal prepping. Serve it with steamed rice, sautéed greens, or miso soup for a complete Japanese-inspired meal.

Ingredients

For the Miso Marinade:

  • 2 tablespoons white miso paste (shiro miso)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine)
  • 1 tablespoon sake (or dry white wine)
  • 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a twist)
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (for balance)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 teaspoon grated garlic
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Salmon:

  • 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil (like vegetable or avocado oil)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • 1 stalk green onion, finely sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Miso Marinade

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, soy sauce, mirin, sake, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic until smooth.

2. Marinate the Salmon

  1. Place the salmon fillets in a dish or zip-top bag.
  2. Pour the marinade over the salmon, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
  3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or for the best flavor, overnight.

3. Cook the Salmon

Pan-Seared Method (For Crispy Skin)

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Remove excess marinade from the salmon (to prevent burning).
  3. Place salmon skin-side down and sear for 4-5 minutes until crispy.
  4. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until caramelized and cooked through.

Oven-Baked Method (For Effortless Cooking)

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place salmon on top.
  3. Bake for 12-15 minutes, then broil for 2 minutes to caramelize the glaze.

Air Fryer Method (For Quick & Crispy)

  1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Place salmon in the basket and cook for 10-12 minutes.

4. Serve & Garnish

  1. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and green onions.
  2. Serve hot with steamed rice, sautéed greens, or miso soup.

Notes

Best Sides to Serve with Miso Salmon

  • Steamed Jasmine or Sushi Rice – Absorbs the delicious sauce.
  • Garlic Butter Bok Choy – A simple and flavorful veggie side.
  • Miso Soup – Complements the miso flavor in the salmon.
  • Cucumber Wakame Salad – Light, refreshing, and balances the richness.
  • Author: niold.com