The incredible benefits of miso: why you should add it to your diet

From its ancient roots in Asia, miso has come a long way to reach shelves in grocery stores all over the world. Now gaining worldwide popularity for its famous umami flavour and numerous health benefits, Miso is finding its way into more and more kitchens across the globe. Let’s explore how this traditional ingredient fits into modern diets and lifestyles.

What is miso?

Have you ever heard of miso? If you’re into Asian cuisine, you’ve likely enjoyed this delicious paste, made from fermented soybeans,.

For those new to miso, you might not be aware of the different types available. Miso varieties are distinguished by the types of rice or barley used in their preparation, and they can vary widely in colour and depth of flavour. How long the miso has been fermented can also impact the taste profile.

What are the health benefits of miso?

Apart from being packed with flavour, miso actually has a ton of health benefits:

Packed with nutrients

Loaded with essential vitamins and minerals, miso paste is rich in Vitamin B, Vitamin K, manganese, copper, and zinc. Plus, it’s a great source of protein and dietary fibre. So, adding miso to your meals can seriously boost your diet’s nutritional value.

Great for your gut

One of the best things about miso is its impact on gut health. As miso is a fermented food, it is packed with good bacteria that is great for you gut. Therefore, adding miso to your meals can aid in digestion, enhance nutrient absorption, and improve your overall gut health. Aiding in the reduction of bloating and constipation, miso could be just what you need.

Boosts immune system

Probiotics found in miso can help increase your immune function, making it easier for your body to fight infections and viruses. Plus, miso contains antioxidants that can protect your body from nasty free radicals, reducing the risk of oxidative stress and giving your immune system the boost it needs.

Supports heart health

Thanks to the bioactive compounds created during fermentation, miso can help reduce cholesterol levels and contribute to lowering blood pressure when eaten regularly. This means incorporating miso into your diet can help you maintain a healthy heart and lower your risk of heart diseases.

Weight management

If you’re watching your weight, miso can be a great addition to your diet. Miso is low in calories but packed full of nutrients, making it a nutritious ingredient choice. As a great low calorie flavour enhancer, miso can be used in all your favourite dishes to punch up your meals in a healthy and delicious way.

Incorporating miso into your diet

Miso paste is super versatile. You can add it to delicious soups, salad dressings, marinades, sauces, and dips for a flavour hit. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Miso soup: A simple, comforting dish that’s great at all hours of the day. Also a great choice if you’re wanting a light meal. Just dissolve a spoonful of miso paste in hot water, add some tofu, seaweed, and green onions, and you’re good to go!
Salad dressings: Mix miso paste with olive oil, vinegar, and a touch of honey for a tangy, healthy dressing that’ll make your salads pop.
Marinades: Use miso as a base for marinades to add depth of flavour to meats, tofu, or veggies. Perfect for grilled chicken or roasted veggies.
Sauces and dips: Blend miso with tahini, garlic, and lemon juice for a tasty, nutritious dip or sauce that goes great with crudités or spread on sandwiches.

Miso’s role in culinary exploration

Miso’s unique flavour has inspired chefs and foodies around the world to experiment with it in all kinds of dishes. While traditional miso soup is still the go-to for most, people are getting creative by using miso in:

Desserts: Though a bold venture into the culinary arts, miso's salty-sweet profile works wonders in cookies, brownies, and even ice cream.
Fusion cuisine: Blended into Western cuisines, miso is being used to create unique dishes, such as miso pasta or miso-infused butter to go alongside bread.

Of course, the type of miso used in these dishes and condiments is completely up to you and your palette. Those new to miso might prefer the lighter umami flavour of a white miso, as opposed to experienced miso lovers who may want something deeper in flavour like a red miso.

The connection between miso and sustainable eating

Today's consumers are much more focused on sustainability, which can impact all their purchasing decisions, this includes the purchasing of organic and locally sourced products.

So where does miso fit into this? Miso is considered a sustainable ingredient as it is sourced by companies that prioritise organic ingredients and traditional fermentation methods. This results in not only the highest quality and flavour but also supports sustainability.

Vegan and vegetarian friendly

Derived from soy beans fermented in salt, water and a fermentation culture called koji, miso is a versatile ingredient that fits perfectly into vegan and vegetarian diets.

It adds a savoury depth to plant-based dishes, making it easier for those following these diets to enjoy complex and satisfying flavours.

Miso’s rich flavour can replace the depth often provided by meat or fish, which enhances soups, stews, and sauces., As a great source of Vitamin B, miso is a fantastic source of B12 for vegans and vegetarians.

Discover the magic of miso

Are you ready to experience the benefits of miso for yourself? You can shop our premium organic miso paste online now. Or feel free to check out our range of other gut-loving fermented products.

At Nourishme Organics, we’re here to support your journey to a healthier gut and overall wellness.