How to Make Miso-Glazed Aubergine (Nasu Dengaku) at Home

Craving something rich, savoury, and deeply satisfying? This miso-glazed aubergine might be just what your weeknight meals are missing. With its caramelised top, soft centre, and bold Japanese flavours, it's the kind of dish that feels indulgent—but is surprisingly easy to make.

All you need is a couple of fresh aubergines and a few key seasonings from our Japanese Cooking Essentials Gift Set.

In this recipe, you’ll learn how to make authentic Nasu Dengaku at home—with step-by-step instructions, tips for perfecting the glaze, and ideas for turning it into a complete meal.

Why This Recipe Works

• Big flavour with minimal effort
• Vegetarian-friendly and can be served as a main or side
• Pairs beautifully with rice or noodles
• Uses versatile Japanese ingredients you'll return to again and again

Ingredients (Serves 2–3)

From the Japanese Cooking Essentials Gift Set:

• 2 tbsp miso paste
• 1 tbsp mirin
• 1 tbsp soy sauce

Fresh ingredients:

• 2 medium aubergines
• Spring onions or sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Steamed sushi rice (optional, for serving)

Method

1. Roast the Aubergines: Preheat your oven to 200°C. Cut the aubergines in half lengthwise and score the flesh of each half in a criss-cross pattern. Place cut side down on a lined baking tray (use baking paper or a non-stick surface). Roast for 25 minutes or until soft and tender. No oil needed – just keep an eye to avoid sticking or drying out.
2. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together miso, mirin and soy sauce until smooth.
3. Glaze and Grill: Flip the roasted aubergines over. Spread the miso glaze evenly over the surface and place under a hot grill for 3–5 minutes until bubbling and golden at the edges.
4. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with sliced spring onions or sesame seeds and serve hot. Perfect with a bowl of steamed rice.

Tips & Variations

• Add a sprinkle of S&B Nanami Togarashi Japanese Chilli for a spicy finish
• Turn it into a donburi – serve sliced aubergine over rice with a jammy egg
• Swap aubergine for courgette or mushrooms if you like

Cook It with Our Japanese Cooking Essentials

This recipe is made mostly with items from our Japanese Cooking Essentials Gift Set. From miso to mirin and soy sauce, you’ll have all the flavour foundations you need for dozens of Japanese dishes.

👉 Shop the set here

Share your version: Made this dish? Tag @morueats on Instagram – we’d love to see what you create!