marinade being poured over raw salmon fillets in a glass dish, evenly coating the fish with golden brown glaze.

Miso Ginger Marinade

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By Millie Pham

This miso ginger marinade is salty-sweet, full of umami, and brings amazing flavor to anything you pour it over. It takes just minutes to mix up, and it gives chicken, tofu, fish, or veggies the perfect savory kick. The miso gives it depth, and the fresh ginger keeps it zippy and bright.

Why I Love This Recipe

I started using this marinade when I got a little tub of miso paste and didn’t know what to do with it. Now I always keep miso on hand just to make this. It’s great for grilling, roasting, or even a quick pan-fry. And it makes your kitchen smell so good.

Why you’ll love it too:

  • 🍜 Full of savory, umami flavor
  • 🧄 Ginger + garlic give it a fresh bite
  • ⏱️ Ready in 5 minutes
  • 🍗 Works on meat, tofu, fish, or veggies
  • 🧊 Keeps well in the fridge for a week

Time to Make: 5 minutes
🍽️ Enough For: 1.5 to 2 pounds of protein or veggies

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp white miso paste
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp water (to thin, optional)

How to Make Miso Ginger Marinade

1. Add Miso and Soy Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together miso paste and soy sauce until smooth.

 white miso paste and soy sauce being whisked in a small bowl, forming a thick, creamy brown base.

2. Add Ginger and Garlic

Stir in the grated ginger and minced garlic.

 ginger and garlic being added to the miso-soy mixture, visible fresh flecks mixing into the marinade

3. Add Vinegar, Honey & Sesame Oil

Mix in the rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil. Whisk until glossy.

vinegar, honey, and sesame oil being mixed into the bowl with the miso, creating a shiny and smooth marinade with visible garlic and ginger bits

4. Adjust with Water if Needed

If the marinade is too thick, add 1 tbsp water to thin it slightly.

a small spoonful of water being stirred into thick miso marinade to loosen the texture slightly.

5. Use or Store It

Pour over chicken, fish, tofu, or veggies and marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 8 hours). Or store in a jar in the fridge.

marinade being poured over raw salmon fillets in a glass dish, evenly coating the fish with golden brown glaze.

What to Serve With It

Pair your miso-marinated protein or veggies with:

  • 🍚 Steamed jasmine or sushi rice
  • 🥦 Roasted broccoli or snap peas
  • 🥢 Stir-fried noodles
  • 🥗 Simple cucumber salad
  • 🥟 Potstickers or spring rolls

FAQ

Can I use red miso instead of white?
Yes, but red miso is stronger and saltier—start with a little less.

What’s the best protein for this?
Salmon, chicken, tofu, shrimp, or even eggplant work great!

How long can I marinate?
30 minutes is the minimum. Up to 8 hours is ideal—don’t go overnight if using fish (it gets mushy).

Can I turn this into a sauce?
Yep! Just simmer the marinade in a small pan until it thickens, and brush it on while cooking.

How long does it last?
Store in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Enjoy!

This Miso Ginger Marinade is a little tangy, a little sweet, and super savory—just what you need to shake up your dinner routine. Once you try it, you’ll want to put it on everything. 🍱🥢🧄

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