If you’re gathering with friends or treating yourself to a delightful dinner, it’s crucial to consider the side dishes that will accompany your Nobu miso salmon. This dish is rich and flavorful, standing out on its own, but pairing it with complementary options can elevate your meal. Steamed jasmine rice is a fantastic choice, as its fluffiness absorbs the salmon’s wonderful flavors perfectly.
For added texture and nutrients, sautéed vegetables—a colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots—enhanced with a touch of garlic and olive oil, work beautifully. A crisp cucumber salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette brings freshness that balances the richness of the salmon.
Lastly, a warm bowl of miso soup offers a nod to Japanese tradition, rounding out your dining experience and perfectly complementing the salmon’s flavors.
Ah, the Nobu miso salmon—it’s the dish that started my culinary obsession. The moment I first tasted it at a trendy restaurant, I knew I had to replicate it at home. It struck me as the perfect harmony of sweetness, umami, and salmon’s natural richness. Over the years, I’ve tweaked the recipe and paired it with various sides, and let me tell you about my journey.
What is Nobu Miso Salmon?
Nobu miso salmon is a signature dish from the renowned Nobu restaurant. This Japanese-Peruvian fusion blends miso paste with mirin and sake, transforming simple salmon fillets into a gastronomic delight. It’s not just salmon; it’s an experience.
Why This Recipe Works?
You might wonder what makes this recipe so appealing. Here are a few reasons why:
- Depth of Flavor: The marinade includes miso and sake, which create a rich and complex flavor profile. This ensures every bite bursts with flavor.
- Tenderness: Marinating the salmon allows it to soak up those delicious flavors, making each piece tender and moist. Trust me; this is not your average salmon.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids. This dish not only tastes fantastic but also contributes to heart health. It’s a win-win!
- Simple Cooking Method: You can either grill, broil, or bake it, depending on your preference. It’s versatility at its best, letting you choose your cooking style without sacrificing that signature flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Nobu Miso Salmon
Before we dive into the cooking process, gather these ingredients:
Marinade
- 1 Tbsp mirin (sweet rice wine)
- 1 Tbsp sake (Japanese rice wine)
- 1 Tbsp tamari
- 2 Tbsp miso paste (any variety; I used Hikari Miso Organic White Miso)
- ¼ tsp roasted sesame oil
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 tsp honey
- 2 salmon fillets with skin (¾ lb, 340 g; ideally, less than 1 inch or 2.5 cm thick; 4–6 oz or 113–170 g per fillet)
Garnish (optional)
- ½ tsp mixed toasted white and black sesame seeds
- 1 scallion/green onion
How To Make This?
With your ingredients lined up, let’s get cooking! Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this scrumptious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a small bowl, mix together the mirin, sake, tamari, miso paste, roasted sesame oil, grated ginger, and honey. Whisk until smooth. This will be the magic potion that transforms your salmon.
Step 2: Marinate the Salmon
Place your salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the salmon, ensuring that each fillet is well coated. Cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, and up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
Step 3: Preheat Your Cooking Surface
Depending on your choice, preheat your grill, oven, or skillet. If grilling or broiling, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. If baking, set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 4: Cook the Salmon
- If Grilling: Remove salmon from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Place on the grill skin-side down. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until the salmon easily flakes with a fork.
- If Baking: Place the fillets skin-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for around 12-15 minutes.
- If Sautéing: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Cook the salmon fillets skin-side down for 4-5 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until beautiful and golden.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, sprinkle the salmon with sesame seeds and thinly sliced scallions. Serve it hot alongside your chosen sides like jasmine rice or miso soup.
Tips
Here are some additional tips to enhance your Nobu miso salmon experience:
- Use Fresh Salmon: Always opt for fresh, high-quality salmon. This will make a world of difference in taste.
- Don’t Over-marinate: While marinating is essential, be cautious. More than two hours may overpower the delicate salmon flavor.
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your salmon is brought to room temperature before cooking. This promotes even cooking.
- Watch the Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the salmon; cooking times may vary based on thickness and your cooking method.
- Experiment with Marinade: Feel free to play with ingredients. Adding a dash of lime juice or a pinch of chili flakes can introduce a fun twist.
Nutrition Information
nobu miso salmon recipe nutrition facts
How to Store the Leftovers?
Leftovers can be saved for later meals. Here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Allow the salmon to cool to room temperature.
- Store any uneaten salmon in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to three days.
- To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
What are Some Recommended Side Dishes for Nobu Miso Salmon?
Pairing dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some fantastic choices:
- Roasted Asparagus: The slight crunch and earthy flavor of asparagus perfectly complement the richness of the salmon. Simply toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F until tender.
- Quinoa Salad: This fluffy, nutty grain adds a nutritious twist. Mix cooked quinoa with diced vegetables, lemon juice, and olive oil for a refreshing side.
- Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy and sweet, this dish provides a comforting contrast to the marinade’s richness. Simply boil or steam sweet potatoes, then mash with a bit of butter and cream.
- Kale Slaw: Rich in nutrients, this crunchy slaw dressed in apple cider vinegar adds brightness to the meal. Mix in shredded carrots and chopped apples for added sweetness.
If the Ingredients are Not Available in Your Pantry, What are Some Substitute Options for the Ingredients?
Sometimes, it’s tough to find certain items. Here are some alternatives:
- Mirin: Use a bit of white rice vinegar mixed with sugar as a substitute. This provides sweetness and acidity.
- Sake: White wine or even a splash of apple cider vinegar can work in a pinch.
- Tamari: Soy sauce is a perfect alternative if you’re not gluten-free.
- Miso Paste: For those with miso scarcity, tahini can substitute, although the flavor will differ.
Nobu Miso Salmon Recipe
Equipment
- Small bowl
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp mirin sweet rice wine
- 1 Tbsp sake Japanese rice wine
- 1 Tbsp tamari
- 2 Tbsp miso paste any variety; I used Hikari Miso Organic White Miso
- ¼ tsp roasted sesame oil
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 tsp honey
- 2 salmon fillets with skin ¾ lb, 340 g; ideally, less than 1 inch or 2.5 cm thick; 4–6 oz or 113–170 g per fillet
- Garnish optional
- ½ tsp mixed toasted white and black sesame seeds
- 1 scallion/green onion
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together the mirin, sake, tamari, miso paste, roasted sesame oil, grated ginger, and honey. Whisk until smooth. This will be the magic potion that transforms your salmon.
- Place your salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the salmon, ensuring that each fillet is well coated. Cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, and up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
- Depending on your choice, preheat your grill, oven, or skillet. If grilling or broiling, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. If baking, set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- If Grilling: Remove salmon from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Place on the grill skin-side down. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until the salmon easily flakes with a fork.
- If Sautéing: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Cook the salmon fillets skin-side down for 4-5 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until beautiful and golden.
- Once cooked, sprinkle the salmon with sesame seeds and thinly sliced scallions. Serve it hot alongside your chosen sides like jasmine rice or miso soup.
Notes
- Use Fresh Salmon: Always opt for fresh, high-quality salmon. This will make a world of difference in taste.
- Don’t Over-marinate: While marinating is essential, be cautious. More than two hours may overpower the delicate salmon flavor.
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your salmon is brought to room temperature before cooking. This promotes even cooking.
- Watch the Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the salmon; cooking times may vary based on thickness and your cooking method.
- Experiment with Marinade: Feel free to play with ingredients. Adding a dash of lime juice or a pinch of chili flakes can introduce a fun twist.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
The Nobu miso salmon is more than a dish; it’s a celebration of flavor and simplicity. With just a few quality ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen. This dish has become a staple for me and my friends, appearing at gatherings and family dinners alike.
With the right sides, it becomes a feast. Don’t be intimidated; this dish is accessible and rewarding. Soon enough, you’ll be the go-to chef among your friends, all thanks to this delightful creation. Give it a try; trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
