Seasonal Sensations · Japanese-inspired
Miso-Glazed Pumpkin & Kale Tempura
A symphony of autumn's warm embrace
Dive into the essence of autumn with this Japanese-inspired dish that pairs the earthy richness of pumpkin and kale with the sublime tang of a miso glaze. The interplay of textures and flavors will transport your senses to a serene, leaf-strewn path in Kyoto.
A recipe by Marco · Executive Chef · Cookbookverse Kitchen
Prep
25 min
Cook
20 min
Serves
4
Difficulty
Intermediate
Ingredients
Tempura
- 1/2 small pumpkin, deseeded and sliced thinly
- 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves torn into large pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup corn starch
- 1 1/2 cups ice-cold sparkling water
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Salt, to taste
Miso Glaze
- 2 tbsp white miso paste
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp mirin
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
Method
- 1
Prepare the Miso Glaze
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine miso paste, soy sauce, mirin, rice vinegar, sugar, and ginger. Stir until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Set aside.
- 2
Mix the Tempura Batter
In a bowl, combine flour and corn starch. Gradually whisk in the ice-cold sparkling water until the batter is smooth and slightly runny. Do not over-mix; small lumps are fine.
- 3
Heat the Oil
In a deep pan, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- 4
Fry the Vegetables
Dip the pumpkin slices and kale leaves into the tempura batter, letting the excess drip off. Carefully place them into the hot oil. Fry each piece until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and season with salt immediately.
- 5
Glaze and Serve
Drizzle the warm miso glaze over the crispy tempura or serve it on the side for dipping. Enjoy the dish warm, savoring each autumnal bite.
Origin story
Tempura, a beloved delicacy of Japan, finds its roots in the Portuguese influence during the 16th century. This version celebrates the bounty of fall by embracing the vibrant colors and flavors of pumpkin and kale, harmonized with an umami-rich miso glaze.
