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
- 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
- Place the salmon fillets in a dish or zip-top bag.
- Pour the marinade over the salmon, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or for the best flavor, overnight.
3. Cook the Salmon
Pan-Seared Method (For Crispy Skin)
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Remove excess marinade from the salmon (to prevent burning).
- Place salmon skin-side down and sear for 4-5 minutes until crispy.
- Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until caramelized and cooked through.
Oven-Baked Method (For Effortless Cooking)
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place salmon on top.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, then broil for 2 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
Air Fryer Method (For Quick & Crispy)
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place salmon in the basket and cook for 10-12 minutes.
4. Serve & Garnish
- Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and green onions.
- 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.