Description
Nobu’s Miso Salmon is a signature dish that brings together rich flavors and a delicate texture. The salmon is marinated in a sweet and savory miso glaze, made with a combination of white miso, soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. This marinade infuses the fish with umami, creating a balance of salty and sweet notes. The salmon is then broiled until golden brown and slightly caramelized, with a crispy exterior and a tender, moist interior. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that highlights the fresh, buttery taste of the salmon, enhanced by the depth of the miso marinade. This dish is often served with a side of steamed rice or vegetables, making it a flavorful, sophisticated meal. Perfect for both casual dining and special occasions.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this rich and flavorful Nobu Miso Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz. each), skin-on for best results
- 3 tablespoons white miso paste (or a blend of white and red miso)
- 2 tablespoons mirin (or substitute with honey or maple syrup for a non-alcoholic version)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (ensure it’s halal certified)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar (or substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option)
- 1–2 teaspoons sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- 1–2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
- A pinch of sea salt (to taste)
Ingredient Highlights
- Salmon: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein, salmon is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. It’s the star of the dish, providing a healthy base for the miso glaze.
- Miso Paste: This fermented soybean paste is the heart of the marinade. It provides an earthy, savory umami flavor that perfectly complements the richness of the salmon.
- Mirin: A sweet rice wine used in Japanese cuisine, mirin adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the miso glaze. You can substitute with honey or maple syrup to make it halal-friendly.
- Soy Sauce: Soy sauce contributes to the savory flavor of the marinade, adding saltiness and richness to balance the sweetness of the mirin and sugar.
- Rice Vinegar: Adds a subtle tang to the marinade, enhancing the overall flavor profile and balancing out the sweetness.
- Sesame Oil: This oil lends a nutty, aromatic flavor that pairs wonderfully with the miso and soy sauce in the glaze.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make the perfect Nobu Miso Salmon:
Prepare the Miso Marinade:
- Mix the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the white miso paste, mirin, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, and brown sugar. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Adjust the Sweetness: Taste the marinade and adjust the sweetness or saltiness by adding more sugar or soy sauce, depending on your preference.
Marinate the Salmon:
- Prepare the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on a plate or in a shallow dish. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, ensuring the marinade adheres well to the fish.
- Coat the Salmon: Pour the miso marinade over the salmon fillets, ensuring that the fish is fully coated. If you have time, cover and refrigerate the salmon to marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, 15 minutes will suffice.
- Optional Tip: For a deeper flavor, you can marinate the salmon for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. The longer it marinates, the more intense the flavor will be.
Cook the Salmon:
- Preheat the Oven or Grill: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat up a grill or grill pan on medium-high heat.
- Cook the Salmon: For the oven, place the marinated salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Roast for 10-12 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of the fillets, so be sure to keep an eye on them.
- Grilling Option: If using a grill, cook the salmon for about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the salmon is cooked through and slightly charred on the outside.
Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish: Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the oven or grill. If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for extra flavor and a touch of crunch.
- Serve: Serve the miso-glazed salmon on a plate with your favorite side dishes such as steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad. It pairs beautifully with a side of jasmine rice or soba noodles.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 400-450 kcal
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 35g