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Tofu Misozuke Recipe (Flavorful Miso-Marinated Tofu)

ByJuri Austin Published on Updated on
4 Comments
5 from 5 votes
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Make Tofu Misozuke at home with this simple, flavorful miso-marinated tofu recipe. A delicious, protein-packed vegan side with a Japanese twist!

Looking for simple tofu sides? Try my Tofu Cream Cheese, Tofu Salad with Seaweed, or Agedashi Tofu!

tofu misozuke on a plate with two forks.

Featured Comment

From Linda: “Easy and I love the variations!”

I’ll walk you through the ingredients and step-by-step instructions. I hope you enjoy it!

Why You Will Love This Recipe 

  • Misozuke adds a rich, savory depth to the mild taste of tofu.
  • Made with just 2 ingredients—simple yet delicious!
  • It’s a flavorful, protein-packed dish that’s vegan-friendly.

What is Misozuke？

Misozuke is a Japanese method of marinating or pickling ingredients in miso paste. Marinade ingredients such as vegetables, meat, or fish in miso paste to add depth and savory flavor.

Tofu misozuke is a unique misozuke that transforms plain tofu into a rich, tasty dish. The creamy and cheesy flavor is an excellent starter for any meal.

Recipe Ingredients

You’ll need the following ingredients to make this Tofu Misozuke:

tofu misozuke ingredients list.
  • Tofu: Both silken (kinu) and firm (momen) tofu work well, but I recommend using firm tofu for this recipe to achieve a better texture and hold.
  • Miso Paste: Opt for white miso (shiro miso) for a milder and lighter taste. If you enjoy a bolder, richer flavor, go for red miso (aka miso).

Miso Paste

Miso paste is a traditional Japanese condiment made from fermenting soybeans, koji, and salt. It adds a complex and unique umami flavor not only to miso soup but also to dressings, stir-fry sauces, and various dishes. To learn more, check out “What Is Miso Paste and How To Use It: A Beginner’s Guide.”

How To Make Tofu Misozuke: STEP BY STEP 

Here are some quick visual instructions! For the video and all the detailed ingredients and instructions, go to the printable recipe card below.

How to make tofu misozuke.

Step 1

Press tofu to remove extra moisture for 30 minutes.

How to make tofu misozuke.

Step 2

Place a plastic wrap on a plate and spread miso paste.

How to make tofu misozuke.

Step 3

Place the tofu and spread the miso paste on all sides.

How to make tofu misozuke.

Step 4

Wrap and keep it in the fridge for one or two days.

How to make tofu misozuke.

Step 5

Open the wrap.

Step 6

Remove the miso paste around the tofu.

tofu misozuke on a plate with two forks.

Slice the tofu into your desired portions and enjoy the rich, savory flavors of this creamy tofu misozuke!

Recipe Tips

  • Make sure that tofu drains thoroughly. This will allow the miso flavors to fully penetrate, resulting in a richer, deeper taste.
  • Enjoy the tofu on the second day after marinating for the best flavor. If you prefer a saltier, more intense flavor, let it marinate for 3-4 days.
  • Don’t waste the leftover miso paste! Use it in miso soup, stir-fries, miso mayo, or any other dish that calls for miso.

Ways to Enjoy Tofu Misozuke

Tofu misozuke is versatile and delicious in many forms. Here are some great ways to enjoy it:

  • As an Appetizer: Dice the tofu for a savory, bite-sized treat.
  • On Crackers: Spread it on crackers for a quick and flavorful snack.
  • Creamy Pasta: Mash it into a smooth paste to create a rich, creamy pasta sauce.
  • Toast Spread: Spread it on toast for a savory, umami-packed breakfast or snack.
  • Grilled: Grill it with a drizzle of olive oil for a crispy, creamy side dish.

Variations

While this recipe uses just miso, you can easily customize it with other ingredients to create unique flavor profiles. Try these delicious variations:

  • Umami: Add dashi powder to deepen the savory flavor.
  • Spicy: Incorporate grated ginger or wasabi for a kick of heat.
  • Sweet: Stir in a touch of honey or sugar for a subtle sweetness.
  • Mild: Add mirin and Japanese sake for a more delicate, balanced taste.

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tofu misozuke on a plate with two forks.

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tofu misozuke on a plate with two forks.

Tofu Misozuke Recipe (Flavorful Miso-Marinated Tofu)

5 from 5 votes
Print Pin Save
Prep: 5 minutes
Cook: 1 day
Total: 1 day 5 minutes
Servings: 4
Author: Juri Austin
Make Tofu Misozuke at home with this simple, flavorful miso-marinated tofu recipe. A delicious, protein-packed vegan side with a Japanese twist!

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Press the Tofu: Drain the tofu by pressing it for at least 30 minutes to remove excess moisture.
  • Marinate: Lay a piece of plastic wrap on a plate and spread a thin layer of miso paste. Place the tofu on top, then spread more miso paste evenly over the tofu's sides and top. Wrap the tofu in the plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 to 2 days to marinate.
  • Remove the Miso Paste: After marinating, unwrap the tofu and gently scrape off the miso paste using a spoon.
  • Serve: Slice the tofu into desired portions and serve as an appetizer or in salads. Enjoy this rich, flavorful tofu misozuke.

Video

Notes

  • Storage: Keep an airtight container in the refrigerator for 5 days.
  • Make sure that tofu drains thoroughly. This will allow the miso flavors to fully penetrate, resulting in a richer, deeper taste.
  • Enjoy the tofu on the second day after marinating for the best flavor. If you prefer a saltier, more intense flavor, let it marinate for 3-4 days.
  • Don’t waste the leftover miso paste! Use it in miso soup, stir-fries, miso mayo, or any other dish that calls for miso.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 46kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 4g
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Japanese
Keyword: tofu misozuke
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4 Comments

  1. 5 stars
    I frequently make vegan ricotta by blending tofu with some miso. Does the fermentation of misozuke develop a different flavour than what just the simple combination of the two ingredients deliver?

    Reply

    1. Thanks, Robbie, that’s a great question! Miso contains enzymes that soften ingredients, leading to a smoother texture when marinated. While this might not be as noticeable with tofu, it’s more pronounced with fish and meat. Marinating with miso not only keeps them from drying out but also imparts a delightful umami richness. Anyway, you can taste the flavorful miso paste in both ways! I love making tofu cream cheese with tofu and miso paste too!

      Reply