Eggplant doesn’t always get the credit it deserves. Too often it’s overlooked in favour of the “star” veggies, but let me tell you — when you give eggplant a miso glaze, it transforms into something caramelised, savoury, and just a little bit addictive.
This solo-friendly Miso-Glazed Eggplant with Sesame Seeds is not only restaurant-level delicious but also full of skin-loving nutrients. Think probiotics from miso (hello, gut-skin connection), anthocyanins from the deep purple eggplant skin, and minerals like zinc and copper from sesame seeds to help keep collagen strong and elastic.
This dish can stand alone with a side of rice, or play the part of a fancy veggie side if you’re building a bigger meal. Either way, your skin will thank you.
Why This Recipe Supports Collagen & Skin Health
- Eggplant (skin on!) → Rich in anthocyanins, antioxidants that protect collagen from oxidative stress.
- Miso → A fermented soybean paste, providing probiotics that support gut health (and therefore skin health).
- Sesame seeds → Packed with zinc and copper, minerals essential for collagen cross-linking and skin elasticity.
- Olive oil → Helps with nutrient absorption and provides skin-friendly fats.
Ingredients (Serves 1)
- 1 small eggplant (about 200 g), halved lengthwise
- 1 tbsp miso paste (white or red)
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp rice vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (toasted if possible)
- 1 spring onion, finely sliced (optional garnish)
Method
- Prep the eggplant: Preheat oven to 200 °C. Score the flesh of the halved eggplant in a criss-cross pattern, being careful not to cut through the skin.
- Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk miso, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and olive oil until smooth.
- Bake the eggplant: Place eggplant halves on a lined baking tray, flesh side up. Brush generously with glaze. Bake for 25–30 minutes, brushing with more glaze halfway through, until soft and caramelised.
- Serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and spring onion. Serve hot with a scoop of rice or quinoa.
Nutritional Highlights (Approx. per serve)
- Calories: ~240 kcal
- Protein: 6 g
- Fibre: 7 g
- Zinc: ~12% daily needs
- Probiotic factor: Miso provides gut-friendly microbes that support clearer, more resilient skin.
- Collagen-friendly combo: Antioxidants + minerals = stronger, more protected collagen.
Reheating & Storage Tips
- Best eaten fresh from the oven for that caramelised glaze.
- If storing, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- To reheat: pop into a hot oven (180 °C, 8–10 mins) or microwave (1–2 mins).
Cost-Per-Serve (AUD, approx.)
- Eggplant (200 g): $2.20
- Miso paste (1 tbsp): $0.60
- Honey/soy/vinegar/olive oil (pantry staples): $0.70
- Sesame seeds + spring onion: $0.50
≈ $4.00 per collagen-supporting serve
Final Word
This miso-glazed eggplant is proof that skin-friendly meals don’t have to be bland or boring. With glossy, savoury-sweet glaze and a sprinkle of sesame crunch, it’s comfort food with a collagen kick.
