miso

noun

mi·​so ˈmē-(ˌ)sō 

plural misos

: a fermented paste that is used especially in Japanese cuisine, that consists chiefly of soybeans, salt, and usually grain (such as barley or rice), and that has a savory taste ranging from very salty to somewhat sweet

… miso, the savory paste that flavors everything in Japanese cuisine from soups and pickles to dressings for salads.

—Harris Salat

Darker misos, such as brown and red, are fermented longer and have a stronger flavor. Lighter-colored misos have been fermented for less time, and have a milder, less salty flavor …

—Robin Asbell

Miso is teeming with protein, B vitamins and minerals, and rich in glutamates, which give food that meaty taste known as umami.

—Carole Kotkin

… miso paste is made by fermenting soybeans and sometimes grains (such as rice, barley, or rye) with a mold …

—Cook's Illustrated

We live on rice, fish, pickles, noodles, and miso soup, made from soybeans.

—James Fallows

Examples of miso in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Meanwhile, stir together miso, butter, honey, and vinegar in a small saucepan over medium to combine. —Ann Taylor Pittman, Southern Living, 3 Oct. 2024

The fermentation process that miso goes through also supports digestion by reducing antinutrient levels, compounds that can limit the body's ability to absorb and use nutrients.35 15. —Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 1 Oct. 2024

The restaurant menu features several dishes invented by Nobu and often copied elsewhere, like the rock shrimp tempura ($32), yellowtail jalapeño ($32) and black cod with miso ($48). —Chelsea Brasted, Axios, 3 Sep. 2024

For a magnesium-rich dinner idea, Tsui recommends miso soup, mapo tofu, or a basic stir-fry—simply follow these steps to achieve that perfect crispiness. —Caroline Tien, SELF, 3 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Japanese

First Known Use

1615, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing miso

• miso paste
• miso soup