Quick Japanese Eggplant Stir-fry in Miso Sauce

If you're looking for a quick, flavorful, and healthy dish, this Japanese Eggplant Stir-Fry is a must-try! Eggplant naturally soaks up flavors, and in this recipe, it absorbs the rich umami of sesame oil, dashi, sake, miso, and a touch of sweetness—creating an irresistible combination of savory depth and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Quick Japanese Eggplant Stir-fry in Miso Sauce

I love using awase miso, a blend of white and red miso, for its balanced saltiness and deep umami. It’s my go-to miso because it works well in almost any dish, making it a pantry essential for Japanese home cooking.

Since eggplant tends to absorb oil, I prefer sesame oil over regular vegetable oil—not only for its nutty aroma but also for its health benefits. It enhances the dish with a rich, toasty depth while keeping it light and nutritious. 

Best of all, this recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy days when you need something satisfying yet effortless. Pair it with a bowl of steamed rice, and you’ve got a simple yet comforting Japanese meal ready in no time!

Japanese Eggplant Stir-Fry in Miso

Recipe Image
Preparation Time IconPreparation Time: 10
Cooking Time IconCooking Time: 10
Servings IconServings: 2
Calories IconCalories per serving: 250 kcal
Cuisine IconCuisine: Japanese
Category IconCategory: Side Dish
Author IconAuthor: Mitsukai
Keywords IconKeywords: eggplant, miso, stir-fry
Print Icon
A simple and flavorful Japanese eggplant stir-fry with rich miso,  sake, dashi, and sesame oil. Quick, healthy, and perfect for a satisfying meal in just 20 minutes!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 4 Japanese eggplants
  • 1 tsp grated ginger
  • 2 tbsp sesame oil

Sauce

  • 50ml dashi
  • 2 tbsp miso
  • 2 tbsp sake
  • 1 tbsp sugar

Garnish

  • 1 tsp roasted sesame seeds
  • broccoli sprouts or chopped green onions, optional

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients

Peel the eggplants in alternating strips and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Peel and grate the ginger. Thinly slice the green onions or scallions for garnish.

Step 2:  Make the sauce

In a small bowl, mix together dashi, miso, sake, and sugar until well combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the eggplants 

Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat.  Add the eggplants and cook until they soften and develop a golden-brown color. Stir occasionally for even cooking.

Step 4: Add aromatics and sauce

Toss in the grated ginger and stir-fry briefly until fragrant. Lower the heat and pour in the soy sauce, dashi, sake, sugar, and miso. Stir well to coat the eggplants evenly. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens and absorbs into the eggplants. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even seasoning.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer the stir-fry to a serving dish and garnish with sesame seeds and broccoli sprouts or chopped green onions for extra flavor and presentation.  Serve hot with steamed rice.

Nutrition Analysis

Calories: ~250 kcal | Protein: ~4g | Carbohydrates: ~28g | Fat: ~12g | Fiber: ~6g | Sodium: ~900mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of miso?

Yes, you can use white or red miso depending on your preference for a milder or stronger flavor.

Can I add a protein?

Absolutely! Chicken, pork, tofu, or shrimp would be great additions.







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