Miso Explained: How to Buy the Best One | America’s Test Kitchen



Think miso is only meant for soup? Think again. Today, Jack Bishop breaks down the science, production, and unique flavor profiles of this essential Japanese fermented paste. Plus, see how incorporating a spoonful of miso can elevate everyday marinades, rich pan sauces, vegetable dips, and even desserts.

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27 Comments

  1. I think some parts of the video skim over important details.

    First, although some of the starch and protein is converted to sugars and amino acids when making the kouji (the inoculated rice/barley/other), the vast majority is converted by enzymatic activity during the ageing step after adding the soybeans.

    Second, the big difference between shiro and aka miso is that aka miso is aged for a much longer time than shiro miso.

    Third, barley miso usually means it is made with barley kouji, but still is mostly soybeans. I don't know if anyone makes a miso with no soybeans.

    The mame miso is special because the other types of miso use rice kouji but mame miso uses 100% mame (bean).

  2. Jack, do you also drink lemon-ahhhd, while sitting in the sh-ahhhd, holding your gardening sp-ahhhd, while listening to a serenade-ahhhhd, once every decade-ahhhd, you devilish reneg-ahhhd?

    (God you sound pompous)

  3. I've been making miso gravy for decades. Make a roux in a skillet with flour, oil and a little bit of water. While constantly stirring add a generous dollop of miso and a splash of tamari. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This is great over anything! Try it with mashed potatoes!

  4. I like a soup made with organic miso mashed avocado, boiled red swiss chard, cubed firm tofu, grated ginger.

    Temperature threshold: Live beneficial bacteria in miso start to struggle or die when temperatures rise above 115°F to 122°F (46°C to 50°C).

  5. What a fantastic video. Having been posted 25 minutes ago and less than 4 minutes in length, I have been able to watch the video in its entirety. I agree with Jack’s conclusion, white miso and red miso are the best starting points. I use both but have not ventured beyond them yet—this video gives a great guide for the other types. 🥓

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