What You’ll Need
- 3 cups of soybeans
- 1 cup of koji (fermented rice or barley)
- ½ cup of sea salt
- 4 cups of water
- A large pot
- A food processor or blender
- Cheesecloth or a nut milk bag
- A fermentation container (preferably ceramic or glass)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Soybeans Preparation
Start by rinsing the soybeans in cold water and removing any impurities or broken beans. Soak the soybeans overnight in a large pot filled with plenty of water. Make sure the beans are fully submerged.
Step 2: Cooking the Soybeans
Drain the soaked soybeans and transfer them back to the large pot. Add 4 cups of fresh water and bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 3-4 hours until the beans become tender. Skim off any foam or impurities that may rise to the surface during cooking.
Step 3: Mashing the Soybeans
Once the soybeans are cooked and cooled, drain them, reserving the cooking liquid. Transfer the beans to a food processor or blender and puree them until smooth. Add some of the reserved cooking liquid if needed to achieve a paste-like consistency.
Step 4: Adding Koji and Salt
Combine the soybean paste with koji and sea salt in a large mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 5: Fermentation
Transfer the mixture to a fermentation container, pressing it down firmly to remove any air pockets. Smooth out the surface, cover the container with a clean towel or cheesecloth, and secure it tightly.
Step 6: Waiting Game
Place the container in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature (around 50-60°F/10-15°C) and let it ferment for at least 6 months. During this time, the miso will develop its distinct flavor profile.
The Final Result
After the fermentation period, your homemade miso will be ready! Store it in the refrigerator to stop further fermentation and preserve its freshness.
Congratulations! You have successfully prepared your own miso, a delightful Japanese fermented delicacy. Making miso at home allows you to appreciate its complex flavors and experiment with different variations. Why not give it a try and elevate your Japanese cooking to new heights?