On a breezy summer evening, while lounging on my patio, I couldn’t help but recall the vibrant flavors of my favorite Japanese izakayas. The air was filled with laughter and the clinking of glasses as friends gathered to enjoy good food. It was during one of those nights that I discovered the delight of edamame—a simple yet delicious appetizer that quickly became my go-to snack. Inspired by that experience, I decided to elevate the classic edamame with a spicy miso glaze, sprinkled with toasted sesame seeds for a delightful crunch. This recipe captures the essence of summer evenings and the joy of sharing food with loved ones.
Ingredients
2 cups edamame (in pods, fresh or frozen)
2 tablespoons miso paste (white or red)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (toasted)
Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Begin by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the edamame pods and cook for about 3-5 minutes until they are tender yet still vibrant green. If using frozen edamame, follow the package instructions for cooking times. Once cooked, drain the edamame and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. This helps maintain their bright color.
While the edamame is cooling, prepare the spicy miso glaze. In a mixing bowl, combine the miso paste, soy sauce, honey (or agave syrup), chili garlic sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Whisk these ingredients together until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. The mixture should be a delightful balance of salty, sweet, and spicy.
In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked edamame with the spicy miso glaze. Make sure each pod is well-coated with the mixture. Allow the edamame to marinate for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.
While the edamame is marinating, toast the sesame seeds. Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and add the sesame seeds. Toast them for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they turn golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
To serve, place the glazed edamame into a serving bowl, sprinkle with the toasted sesame seeds, and garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions if desired. Enjoy this dish warm or at room temperature, as a delightful snack or an appetizer that will transport you to those lively summer nights filled with laughter and good company.