What Is White Miso Paste?

What Is White Miso Paste?

White miso, also known as Shiro miso or kome miso, originated in Kyoto. It is a thick paste made from fermented rice, barley, and soybeans.

White miso is the mildest of the miso pastes. It is lighter in color and flavor when compared to red miso (Aka miso), which is saltier, darker in color, and has a more intense flavor.

White miso contains a higher proportion of rice than red miso. White miso is aged and fermented for about six months, whereas red miso can be fermented from 12 to 18 months.

Ways To Use White Miso In Cooking

White miso paste can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and marinades to salad dressings and glazes.

Experiment with different recipes and cooking techniques to discover the versatility of white miso paste and how it can enhance the flavor of your dishes.

When To Add Miso Paste in Cooking

Miso should be added towards the end of cooking, especially in dishes like soups or stews.

This is because miso is a fermented product, and high heat can destroy its beneficial enzymes and alter its flavor.

Therefore, it is best to turn off the heat or reduce it to a very low simmer before adding miso to your dish.

This ensures that its flavor remains intact and that you can fully enjoy its unique taste and health benefits.

Tips For Using Miso Paste

• Start with a small amount of miso paste and gradually add more to taste. White miso paste has a milder flavor compared to darker varieties, but it can still be quite potent, so it's best to add it gradually until you achieve the desired taste.
• White miso paste can be a bit thick and clumpy, so it is important to dissolve it properly in the dish you're preparing. To do this, you can mix the miso paste with a small amount of warm water or broth before adding it to the pot. This helps ensure that the miso paste disperses evenly throughout the dish.
• Avoid boiling or cooking miso paste at high temperatures, as this can diminish its flavor and beneficial enzymes. Instead, add miso paste towards the end of cooking or when the dish has been removed from heat to preserve its taste and nutritional properties.
• Store white miso paste in the refrigerator once opened to maintain its freshness and flavor. It can last for several months when properly stored. Be sure to seal the container tightly to prevent air exposure, which can cause the miso paste to darken and lose its flavor over time.

How To Store Miso

Miso paste has a relatively long shelf life of about 3-6 months if stored and used correctly. Once opened, it should be stored covered in the refrigerator to maintain its color and flavor.

Always use a clean and dry spoon when scooping out the miso paste and as soon as you have finished using it, put it back in the fridge.

Recipes With White Miso Paste

Stir Fried Kailan or Chinese broccoli with miso butter is a quick and easy recipe. It can be ready in less than 15 minutes and goes so well as a side for many Asian style meals.