In the heart of a bustling farmers’ market, I stumbled upon a vibrant display of sweet potatoes, their earthy aroma blending seamlessly with the sweetness of fresh produce. Inspired by the simplicity of these tubers and my love for the umami flavor of miso, I decided to create a dish that would highlight both. This recipe is a celebration of contrasting textures and flavors – the creamy sweet potatoes, the rich miso glaze, and the crunchy sesame seeds. It’s perfect as a side dish for any gathering or a wholesome vegetarian main course.
Ingredients
4 medium sweet potatoes
3 tablespoons white miso paste
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
2 scallions, finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly, then pierce each one several times with a fork. This step is crucial as it allows steam to escape during cooking, ensuring they become tender without exploding.
Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast them in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. While the sweet potatoes are roasting, prepare the miso glaze by combining the white miso paste, maple syrup, soy sauce, olive oil, rice vinegar, and freshly grated ginger in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth and well blended.
Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Cut each sweet potato in half lengthwise and gently scoop out a small amount of flesh to create a little well for the glaze, being careful not to break the skin.
Brush the miso glaze generously over the halved sweet potatoes, ensuring they are well coated. Return the glazed sweet potatoes to the oven and roast for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the glaze to caramelize and develop a deeper flavor.
While the sweet potatoes are finishing up, toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat until they are golden and fragrant. Keep a close eye on them as they can burn quickly.
Once the sweet potatoes are ready, remove them from the oven and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and finely chopped scallions. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm.
This dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also brings a splash of color to your table. Each bite is a perfect harmony of sweetness and umami, making it a memorable addition to any meal. Enjoy your culinary adventure with these Miso-Glazed Sweet Potatoes – a true delight that pays homage to the simplicity of good ingredients.