Ep 3. Ginger-Miso

In season 18 episode 3 of Simply Ming, titled "Ginger-Miso," Chef Ming Tsai is joined by guest chef Karen Akunowicz. Together, they explore the bold and savory flavors of Japanese cuisine with a focus on ginger and miso.

The episode begins with Chef Ming demonstrating the proper technique for prepping ginger, a staple ingredient in Japanese cooking. He explains that ginger adds a unique heat and flavor to dishes, and can be used in a variety of ways, from pickled to pureed.

Next, Chef Karen shows viewers how to make a delicious and comforting ginger-miso soup. She starts by frying up ginger and garlic in a pan, then adds in miso paste and chicken stock to create a rich and flavorful broth. She also adds tofu and cooked soba noodles for heartiness and texture.

Moving on to the main course, Chef Ming prepares a ginger and miso glazed salmon. He rubs ginger and miso on the fish, then roasts it in the oven until it's perfectly cooked. He finishes the dish with a drizzle of Asian pear sauce for a touch of sweetness.

Chef Karen showcases her own take on a miso-glazed dish by creating a vegetarian roasted eggplant with ginger-miso glaze. She cuts eggplants into thin slices, then bakes them until they're soft and tender. She then brushes them with a ginger-miso glaze and roasts them in the oven until they're caramelized and flavorful.

No Japanese meal would be complete without a side of rice, and Chef Ming has the perfect recipe for ginger fried rice. He starts by cooking white rice, then adds ginger, garlic, and soy sauce for flavor. He also throws in some peas and carrots for color and texture.

To finish off the episode, Chef Karen whips up a ginger and elderflower cocktail. She combines ginger liqueur, elderflower liqueur, and sparkling wine to create a refreshing and bright drink that's perfect for sipping on a warm day.

Throughout the episode, Chefs Ming and Karen share tips and tricks for working with ginger and miso, and show viewers how these ingredients can add depth and complexity to any dish. With their easy-to-follow recipes and expert guidance, viewers will be inspired to bring the bold flavors of Japanese cuisine into their own kitchens.