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Miso & sesame eggs

This quick and simple recipe transforms humble eggs into an umami-rich snack or starter. Soft-boiled eggs are enhanced with a savory white miso paste, fragrant toasted sesame seeds, and a hint of smoked paprika, offering a delightful blend of Japanese-inspired flavors.
Course Snack
Cuisine Japanese
Servings 2 people
Calories 191.9 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Small Saucepan For boiling the eggs
  • 1 Slotted Spoon For safely transferring hot eggs
  • 1 Small Bowl For preparing the miso mixture
  • 1 Small spoon or whisk For mixing miso paste
  • 1 Serving Plate For presentation

Ingredients
  

Main

  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp white miso
  • 2 tsp toasted sesame seeds
  • a little smoked paprika

Instructions
 

  • Prepare an ice bath by filling a bowl with cold water and ice cubes; set aside.
  • Carefully place the eggs in a small saucepan and cover with cold water by about an inch.
  • Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, then immediately reduce to a gentle simmer.
  • Cook the eggs for 6-7 minutes for soft-boiled, or 8-10 minutes for medium-boiled, depending on desired doneness.
  • Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked eggs directly into the prepared ice bath to stop the cooking process. Let them cool for at least 5 minutes.
  • While eggs are cooling, in a small bowl, mix the white miso paste with a tiny splash of warm water (if needed) to create a spreadable consistency.
  • Gently peel the cooled eggs. You can peel them under cold running water for ease.
  • Carefully halve each egg lengthwise.
  • Spoon or lightly brush a small amount of the miso paste over the yolk of each egg half.
  • Sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds and a pinch of smoked paprika over the miso-topped eggs before serving.

Notes

For perfectly soft-boiled eggs, start them in cold water, bring to a rolling boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 6-7 minutes. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking and make peeling easier. The miso paste can be a strong flavor; consider emulsifying it with a tiny amount of hot water or a touch of the egg yolk for a smoother, more even application. A drizzle of high-quality toasted sesame oil just before serving will amplify the nutty notes. This dish also works beautifully with perfectly fried or poached eggs, offering textural variety. Adjust paprika to taste for a subtle smokiness without overpowering the delicate miso and sesame flavors.