Nasu Dengaku Pasta

Nasu Dengaku Pasta is a delightful fusion dish that combines the rich flavors of miso-glazed eggplant with al dente pasta. This vegetarian Japanese-inspired meal is both comforting and satisfying, perfect for any pasta lover.

Ingredients

• Pasta (spaghetti or udon) - 150 grams
• Japanese eggplant - 1 medium (about 200 grams)
• Miso paste - 2 tablespoons
• Mirin - 1 tablespoon
• Soy sauce - 1 tablespoon
• Sesame oil - 1 tablespoon
• Garlic - 1 clove, minced
• Ginger - 1 teaspoon, grated
• Spring onions - 2, chopped
• Sesame seeds - 1 tablespoon, toasted
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste

Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Slice the Japanese eggplant in half lengthwise and score the flesh in a diamond pattern without cutting through the skin.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the miso paste, mirin, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger to create the glaze.
4. Brush the miso glaze generously over the cut sides of the eggplant.
5. Place the eggplant halves on a baking sheet, cut side up, and roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
6. While the eggplant is roasting, cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted water until al dente.
7. Drain the pasta and reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.
8. In a skillet over medium heat, add a little sesame oil and sauté the chopped spring onions for 2 minutes until fragrant.
9. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the sautéed spring onions, adding reserved pasta water if necessary to create a light sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
10. Once the eggplant is done roasting, plate the pasta and top each serving with a roasted eggplant half. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbs: 65 g
• Fiber: 7 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Water: 0.25 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in antioxidants from eggplant, which may help protect against chronic diseases.
• High in dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion and satiety.

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