If you're a salted caramel aficionado, get ready to meet your new obsession: miso caramel. This recipe takes caramel to new heights by adding a subtle salty edge and an irresistible umami flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.
The best part? It's quick and easy to make and pairs perfectly with any dessert, from a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream to decadent fudge brownies. Once you try this miso caramel recipe, you won't want to go back to plain old salted caramel again.
Take Aways
- Use the right miso type: Choosing the right miso paste is crucial when making miso caramel. Choose salty and savory miso, rather than sweet or mild, to ensure the caramel has the right flavor profile.
- Be patient when cooking the sugar: When cooking the sugar for the caramel, avoid stirring the mixture too much. Over-stirring can cause the sugar to crystallize and create a grainy texture in the finished sauce.
- Add the cream slowly: When adding it to the caramel, add it slowly and in small amounts to prevent overflow and ensure the mixture blends smoothly. The cream can overflow if you add it too quickly, creating a mess and potentially burning you.
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What is Miso Caramel?
Wondering what miso caramel is? In a nutshell, it's a caramel sauce that's taken to new heights with the addition of miso paste, which provides a salty edge and umami flavor often referred to as the "fifth flavor." Suppose you're a fan of salted caramel. In that case, you're in for a real treat with this miso caramel recipe, as it takes the saltiness to a whole new level and offers a more complex and nuanced flavor experience than traditional caramel. Once you try miso caramel, you'll be hooked on this unique and delicious sauce that can take your desserts to the next level.
Watch the video: Miso Caramel
How does Miso Caramel compare to other caramel flavors?
Miso caramel has a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from other types of caramel. While traditional caramel is typically made with sugar, butter, and cream, miso caramel adds a savory element to the mix with miso paste. The miso paste adds a salty and umami-rich flavor to the caramel, giving it a more complex and sophisticated taste than traditional caramel.
Miso caramel is less sweet than other caramel flavors and has a more balanced flavor profile. The saltiness of the miso helps balance the sweetness of the caramel, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more savory flavor profile. Miso caramel can also be more versatile than traditional caramel, as it pairs well with sweet and savory dishes.
Ingredients you'll need
The ingredients to make this delicious miso caramel recipe are listed below. Just four simple ingredients:
1 Granulated or caster sugar - either one works well for making caramel sauce.
2 Water - while not strictly necessary for all caramel recipes, it can help the sugar to caramelize more evenly.
3 Heavy cream - known as whipping cream in some countries- adds richness and creaminess to the sauce. For reference, the cream used in this recipe contains 1.4oz (39g) of fat.
4 Miso - there are many different types of miso, each with its own unique flavor profile. Any miso except sweet-eating miso will work well to add the desired salty element to this caramel recipe.
Choosing the right miso for miso caramel
Sweet-eating miso, also known as "saikyo" miso, is a type of miso that is sweeter and milder in flavor than other varieties. While it may work well in some dishes, it is not recommended for miso caramel because it does not have the savory umami flavor essential to achieving the desired taste profile.
Miso caramel relies on the addition of miso to provide a unique flavor combination of sweet and salty with an umami twist. Using sweet-eating miso, which lacks the desired salty flavor, would result in a caramel sauce that is too sweet and lacks the depth of flavor that miso caramel is known for.
Instead, it is recommended to use a different type of miso, such as white or red miso, which have a more savory flavor and can provide the necessary saltiness and umami notes to create a truly delicious miso caramel sauce.
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Step-by-Step instructions
Let me walk you through the step-by-step process of making miso caramel.
Step 1
To ensure the miso blends smoothly into the caramel, loosen it up with water. Add 2 tablespoons of water to the miso and stir until it has a smooth and pourable consistency. Once the miso is loosened, it's a good idea to strain it through a sieve to remove any lumps or clumps that might affect the texture of the finished sauce.
This step will help ensure the miso blends evenly with the caramel, producing a delicious and perfectly balanced miso caramel sauce.
Step 2
To ensure perfect harmony between the cream and caramel, it's important to heat it to the right temperature. Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it is just before boiling point. This will ensure the cream is hot enough to blend well with the caramel but not so hot that it curdles or separates. Once the cream is heated, turn off the heat and set the saucepan aside until it's time to add it to the caramel.
Step 3
Grab a large, deep saucepan and add sugar and water to make miso caramel. Use a wooden spatula to give the mixture a quick stir, helping the sugar to dissolve evenly. A large and deep pot is essential to prevent splatters or overflow as the mixture heats up and bubbles.
Note:
Once you've started heating the sugar mixture, it's important to avoid stirring it. Stirring can cause the sugar to crystallize, resulting in a grainy and uneven caramel texture.
Step 4
Once you've added the sugar and water to the saucepan, heat the mixture over medium heat until it boils. Avoid stirring the mixture at this point, as stirring can cause the sugar to crystallize and lead to a grainy texture in the finished sauce. Instead, allow the mixture to boil and bubble until it reaches the desired color and consistency, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning or scorching.
Note:
Once the sugar starts to change color and turn a delicious caramel brown, keeping a close eye on the saucepan is essential. Don't be tempted to look away; catching the caramel at the right moment is crucial to achieving the perfect color and flavor.
Step 5
Once the sugar mixture has reached a beautiful golden brown color, it's time to remove the pan from the heat. This step is crucial to prevent the caramel from continuing to cook and potentially burning or scorching.
Be sure to move quickly and carefully, as the mixture will be hot and burn if left on the heat for too long. Taking the pan off the heat at the right moment will give you the perfect color and consistency for your miso caramel sauce.
Note:
First, remove the saucepan from the heat to add the cream to the caramel. When adding the cream, do so slowly and in small amounts, as it may cause the mixture to bubble up and potentially overflow the pan.
Why preheat the heavy cream first?
Preheating the whipping cream before adding it to the sugar mixture is crucial when making miso caramel. This is because adding cold cream to hot caramel can cause the mixture to bubble up and potentially overflow the pan, creating a mess and posing a safety hazard.
Preheating the cream brings it to a temperature similar to the caramel, allowing the two to blend more smoothly and evenly. The mixture can be combined more efficiently and safely by slowly preheating and adding the cream. This results in a luscious and creamy miso caramel sauce perfect for drizzling over desserts or incorporating into other sweet and savory dishes.
Step 6
To add the preheated cream to the caramel mixture, add it slowly and carefully to prevent splatters. Start by pouring in a small amount of cream, constantly stirring to blend it well with the caramel. As you add the cream, keep stirring and working in small amounts to avoid bubbling or overflowing.
Step 7
After adding the cream to the caramel, it's time to whisk in the loosened miso mixture. Use a whisk to combine the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring that the miso blends smoothly and evenly with the caramel and cream. Be sure to whisk carefully and patiently, as this step is critical to achieving a deliciously smooth and velvety texture for your miso caramel sauce.
Step 8
To finish off your miso caramel sauce, place the saucepan back on the heat and set it to low. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about a minute, occasionally stirring to ensure it doesn't stick or burn.
Watch the mixture as it simmers, adjusting the heat to prevent burning or scorching. This step will help to thicken and further develop the flavors of the sauce, resulting in a rich and delicious caramel that's perfect for drizzling over ice cream, dipping with fruit, or using it as a decadent ingredient in other sweet and savory dishes.
Step 9
After your miso caramel sauce has simmered for a minute, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to a storage container. This will help to prevent any heat-related damage to the container and ensure that the sauce sets properly.
Once the sauce has cooled down, carefully pour it into a clean, airtight container, such as a glass jar or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid. Be sure to label the container clearly, noting the date the sauce was made and any other relevant information. Stored properly, your miso caramel sauce should keep for about 2 weeks, ready to be enjoyed whenever you need a sweet and savory hit of flavor.
How to store and freeze Miso Caramel
Proper storage is key to keeping your miso caramel sauce fresh and delicious for as long as possible. If you store it in the fridge, it will keep well for up to two weeks.
To freeze miso caramel, pour it into an ice cube tray and freeze it until solid. Once frozen, remove the cubes from the tray and transfer them to a ziplock bag, pressing out as much air as possible before sealing. When you're ready to use it, thaw the sauce in the fridge overnight, and it will be ready to enjoy.
Frozen miso caramel will last up to a month, giving you plenty of time to enjoy it in all sorts of sweet and savory dishes. By taking care to store your miso caramel properly, you'll be able to savor its rich and complex flavor for weeks to come.
Tips for creating the perfect consistency and flavor
To create the perfect consistency and flavor for your miso caramel sauce, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Use a large, deep saucepan to prevent splatters or overflow as the mixture heats up and bubbles.
- Be patient and resist the urge to stir the sugar mixture as it caramelizes, as this can cause the sugar to crystallize and lead to a grainy texture in the finished sauce.
- When adding the cream to the caramel, pour it in slowly and in small amounts to prevent overflow and ensure the mixture blends smoothly.
- Whisk the loosened miso mixture into the caramel thoroughly to ensure that the miso is evenly distributed and fully combined with the other ingredients.
- Simmer the mixture on low heat for a minute, occasionally stirring, to help thicken and develop the sauce flavors.
- Allow the miso caramel sauce to cool to room temperature before storing it in a glass jar in the fridge or freezer.
What are the uses of Miso Caramel?
Miso caramel is a versatile and delicious ingredient in all sorts of sweet and savory dishes. Here are just a few ideas:
- Drizzle it over ice cream or pancakes for a decadent and delicious treat.
- Use it as a dip for sliced fruit, such as apples or pears.
- Use it as a sauce for baked goods, such as brownies or cakes.
- Add it to your morning coffee or tea for a sweet and savory flavor boost.
- Use it as a marinade for meat or tofu or as a glaze for roasted vegetables.
- Mix it into your favorite frosting recipe for a unique and delicious flavor twist.
- Use it as a spread for toast or croissants, or mix it into your favorite nut butter for a sweet and salty treat.
Other culinary applications of Miso Caramel
In addition to the abovementioned uses, miso caramel can be used in various culinary applications. Here are a few more ideas for how to use this delicious ingredient:
- Use miso caramel as a topping for cheesecake or other baked desserts.
- Mix miso caramel into your favorite cocktail recipe for a unique and flavorful twist.
- Use miso caramel for savory dishes, such as grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
- Add miso caramel to your favorite stir-fry recipe for a sweet and savory flavor boost.
- Use miso caramel as a glaze for salmon or other types of seafood.
- Mix miso caramel into your favorite salad dressing recipe for a unique and flavorful twist.
- Use miso caramel as a dip for savory snacks, such as chicken wings or potato chips.
With its rich and complex flavor, miso caramel can be used in various culinary applications to add depth and complexity to your favorite recipes. Whether you're using it in sweet or savory dishes, this delicious ingredient will surely add a unique and unforgettable flavor to your cooking.
Can Miso Caramel be made vegan?
Yes, miso caramel can be made vegan using plant-based alternatives to the heavy cream typically used in traditional recipes. One popular option is coconut cream instead of heavy cream, giving the miso caramel a rich and creamy texture without using dairy.
To make vegan miso caramel, replace the heavy cream called for in your recipe with an equal amount of coconut cream or another plant-based cream alternative such as almond or soy cream.
You can also use a vegan-friendly sugar substitute, such as maple syrup or agave nectar, instead of granulated sugar to make the recipe fully vegan. If veganism is your cup of tea, you can opt to use a plant-based butter substitute instead of regular butter.
Common mistakes to avoid when making Miso Caramel
While miso caramel is a delicious and versatile ingredient, a few common mistakes can affect the flavor and texture of the finished sauce. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making miso caramel:
1 Over-stirring the sugar: When making caramel, try not to stir the sugar too much as it caramelizes. Over-stirring can cause the sugar to crystallize and create a grainy texture in the finished sauce.
2 Adding the cream too quickly: When adding cream to the caramel, do it slowly and in small amounts to prevent overflow and ensure the mixture blends smoothly.
3 Using the wrong type of miso: Not all miso is the same, and using the wrong type can affect the flavor and saltiness of the finished sauce. Be sure to use salty and savory miso rather than sweet or mild.
4 Cooking the caramel for too long: Overcooking the caramel can cause it to become too thick and difficult to work with. Simmer the sauce on low heat for a minute or two to avoid this problem.
5 Not allowing the caramel to cool: Miso caramel can be quite hot when it's first made, and it's crucial to allow it to cool to room temperature before storing it in a container. If the sauce is too hot, it can cause the container to crack or explode.
Variations and flavors of Miso Caramel
While miso caramel is already a unique and delicious flavor, there are several variations and flavor combinations that you can try to add even more depth and complexity to this versatile sauce.
Here are a few ideas for variations and flavor combinations to try:
1 Spiced miso caramel: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to your miso caramel recipe to give it a warm and comforting flavor. Or you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the caramel mixture to give it a spicy kick.
2 Citrus miso caramel: Add lemon or orange zest to your miso caramel to give it a bright and zesty flavor.
3 Chocolate miso caramel: Mix some melted chocolate with your miso caramel for a rich and indulgent flavor.
4 Peanut butter miso caramel: Add some creamy peanut butter to your miso caramel for a sweet and salty flavor combination.
5 Coconut miso caramel: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream in your miso caramel recipe for a tropical twist.
6 Matcha miso caramel: Mix some matcha powder with your miso caramel for a unique and earthy flavor.
7 Whiskey miso caramel: Add a splash of your favorite whiskey to your miso caramel for a boozy and complex flavor.
These are just a few ideas for variations and flavor combinations with miso caramel. Experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create unique and delicious miso caramel creations.
How long does Miso Caramel last?
Miso caramel can last up to two weeks when stored correctly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Allow caramel to cool to room temperature before storing it in the fridge. Trying to store it while it's still hot can cause the container to crack or explode.
You can freeze miso caramel if you need to keep it for longer. To freeze miso caramel, pour it into a freezer-safe container or ice cube tray and store it in the freezer for up to one month. When ready to use the caramel, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or heat it gently on the stove or microwave.
It's important to note that the texture and consistency of miso caramel may change slightly over time, especially if it's been frozen and thawed. However, if the caramel smells and tastes good, it should be safe to eat.
Full Recipe
Miso Caramel Recipe
Pin RecipeIngredients:
- ¾ cup sugar
- ¼ cup water
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoon Miso paste
Watch the Video:
Instructions:
- To ensure the Miso blends smoothly into the caramel, loosen it up with water. Add 2 tablespoons of water to the miso and stir until it has a smooth and pourable consistency. Once the miso is loosened, it’s a good idea to strain it through a sieve to remove any lumps or clumps that might affect the texture of the finished sauce.
- Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it is just before boiling point. This will ensure the cream is hot enough to blend well with the caramel but not so hot that it curdles or separates. Once the cream is heated, turn off the heat and set the saucepan aside until it’s time to add it to the caramel.
- Grab a large, deep saucepan and add sugar and water to make miso caramel. Use a wooden spatula to give the mixture a quick stir, helping the sugar to dissolve evenly. A large and deep pot is essential to prevent splatters or overflow as the mixture heats up and bubbles.
- Once you’ve added the sugar and water to the saucepan, heat the mixture over medium heat until it boils. Avoid stirring the mixture at this point, as stirring can cause the sugar to crystallize and lead to a grainy texture in the finished sauce. Instead, allow the mixture to boil and bubble until it reaches the desired color and consistency, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning or scorching.
- Once the sugar mixture has reached a beautiful golden brown color, it’s time to remove the pan from the heat. This step is crucial to prevent the caramel from continuing to cook and potentially burning or scorching.
- To add the preheated cream to the caramel mixture, add it slowly and carefully to prevent splatters. Start by pouring in a small amount of cream, constantly stirring to blend it well with the caramel. As you add the cream, keep stirring and working in small amounts to avoid bubbling or overflowing.
- After adding the cream to the caramel, it’s time to whisk in the loosened miso mixture. Use a whisk to combine the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring that the miso blends smoothly and evenly with the caramel and cream. Be sure to whisk carefully and patiently, as this step is critical to achieving a deliciously smooth and velvety texture for your miso caramel sauce.
- To finish off your miso caramel sauce, place the saucepan back on the heat and set it to low. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about a minute, occasionally stirring to ensure it doesn’t stick or burn. Watch the mixture as it simmers, adjusting the heat to prevent burning or scorching. This step will help to thicken and further develop the flavors of the sauce, resulting in a rich and delicious caramel that’s perfect for drizzling over ice cream, dipping with fruit, or using it as a decadent ingredient in other sweet and savory dishes.
- After your miso caramel sauce has simmered for a minute, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to a storage container. This will help to prevent any heat-related damage to the container and ensure that the sauce sets properly.
Notes:
Tips for creating the perfect consistency and flavor
To create the perfect consistency and flavor for your miso caramel sauce, here are a few tips to keep in mind:- Use a large, deep saucepan to prevent splatters or overflow as the mixture heats up and bubbles.
- Be patient and resist the urge to stir the sugar mixture as it caramelizes, as this can cause the sugar to crystallize and lead to a grainy texture in the finished sauce.
- When adding the cream to the caramel, pour it in slowly and in small amounts to prevent overflow and ensure the mixture blends smoothly.
- Whisk the loosened miso mixture into the caramel thoroughly to ensure that the miso is evenly distributed and fully combined with the other ingredients.
- Simmer the mixture on low heat for a minute, occasionally stirring, to help thicken and develop the sauce flavors.
- Allow the miso caramel sauce to cool to room temperature before storing it in a glass jar in the fridge or freezer.
Nutrition Information:
Please note that all nutrition information are just estimates. Values will vary among brands, so we encourage you to calculate these on your own for most accurate results.
