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Savory Miso Glazed Kabocha Squash – Easy Baked Recipe

miso glazed kabocha squash - featured image

This savory baked kabocha squash with miso glaze transforms humble winter squash into a caramelized, umami-packed main event. Quick to prepare and deeply satisfying, it’s perfect for weeknights or dinner parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium kabocha squash (about 23 pounds)
  • 3 tablespoons white miso paste
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce or tamari
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cut kabocha squash in half through the stem end. Scoop out seeds and stringy fibers. Cut each half into 1-inch thick wedges or crescents. Do not peel.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, maple syrup, sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger until smooth. If too thick, add a teaspoon of warm water.
  4. Arrange squash wedges in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Brush miso glaze generously over all sides. Reserve about 2 tablespoons of glaze for later.
  5. Roast for 20 minutes. Remove from oven, flip each wedge, and brush with reserved glaze.
  6. Return to oven and roast for another 15-20 minutes, until fork-tender and edges are caramelized.
  7. Optional: Broil for 2-3 minutes for extra caramelization, watching closely.
  8. Transfer to a serving platter. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot, warm, or at room temperature.

Notes

For easier cutting, microwave the whole squash for 2 minutes to soften slightly. If the glaze is too thick, add a teaspoon of warm water. Reserve some glaze for basting halfway through to achieve a thick, sticky finish. Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure caramelization. For a spicy version, add 1 teaspoon sriracha or gochujang to the glaze.

Nutrition

Keywords: kabocha squash, miso glaze, roasted squash, savory squash, vegan side dish, gluten-free, easy vegetable recipe