Mystical Miso Medley

This simple yet flavorful dish takes pantry staples to new heights. The nutty richness of miso, a traditional Japanese seasoning, melts into a medley of aromatic vegetables and quinoa for a nourishing and savory bowl that's ready in just 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy lunch, or as a side dish to accompany grilled or roasted proteins.

The genesis of this Mystical Miso Medley lies in an old family recipe that has been passed down through generations. It was a simple dish, made with whatever vegetables were in season and a dollop of miso paste, and it always elicited comforting aromas that wafted through the kitchen. As I embarked on a culinary journey to refine this beloved recipe, I delved into the history of miso and its transformative abilities. I discovered that miso, fermented for months or even years, is a rich source of umami, vitamins, and minerals. Its complex flavor profile, reminiscent of earthy mushrooms and salty caramel, instantly elevates any dish. With these insights, I began experimenting with different vegetable combinations and cooking techniques to create a medley that showcased the essence of miso while maintaining its simplicity. The result is this Mystical Miso Medley, a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will warm your body and soul.

Prep time: 10 | Cook time: 20 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery sticks, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup white miso paste
• 3 cups vegetable broth

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the miso paste and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the quinoa and vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked through.
6. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, and serve warm.

Why It Works

• The combination of carrots, celery, and onions creates a flavorful base, providing a sweet and savory balance to the dish.
• Miso paste is a fermented soybean paste that adds a salty, umami-rich flavor to the dish. It also helps to tenderize the vegetables.
• Quinoa is a gluten-free, high-protein grain that adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture to the dish.
• Cooking the vegetables in olive oil helps to caramelize them, enhancing their natural sweetness.
• Letting the dish stand before fluffing allows the quinoa to absorb more of the flavorful broth.