Grilled Miso-Glazed Koi with Sesame Rice

Ingredients

• 4 koi fish fillets (approximately 6 ounces each) 4 koi fish fillets (approximately 6 ounces each)
• 1/4 cup (60ml) white miso paste 1/4 cup (60ml) white miso paste
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons mirin 2 tablespoons mirin
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 2 cups (400g) cooked Japanese short-grain rice 2 cups (400g) cooked Japanese short-grain rice
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 3g
• Protein: 26g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. 2.
   In a small bowl, whisk together the miso paste, soy sauce, mirin, and grated ginger to make the miso glaze.
3. 3.
   Pat dry the koi fish fillets with a paper towel and brush both sides generously with the miso glaze.
4. 4.
   Place the fish fillets on the preheated grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the fish is cooked through and the glaze has caramelized slightly.
5. 5.
   While the fish is grilling, heat the cooked rice in a pan over medium heat. Drizzle with toasted sesame oil and stir to combine.
6. 6.
   Divide the sesame rice among serving plates and top each portion with a grilled koi fish fillet.
7. 7.
   Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
8. 8.
   Serve hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Koi fish — Ensure the fish fillets are fresh and free from any unpleasant odor. If koi fish is not available, you can substitute it with other firm white fish such as sea bass or snapper.
• Miso paste — Use white miso paste for a milder and sweeter flavor. Adjust the amount of miso paste according to your preference for saltiness.
• Japanese short-grain rice — Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch. Cook the rice according to the package instructions for best results.
• Toasted sesame oil — Use high-quality toasted sesame oil to enhance the nutty flavor of the rice.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smoky flavor, you can grill the koi fish on a cedar plank.
• If you prefer a stronger ginger flavor, increase the amount of grated ginger in the miso glaze.
• Serve the dish with a side of steamed vegetables, such as bok choy or asparagus, to add freshness and color.
• If you don't have a grill, you can also cook the fish fillets in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 10-12 minutes.
• To make the dish more visually appealing, garnish with a sprinkle of microgreens or edible flowers.

Serving advice

Serve the Grilled Miso-Glazed Koi with Sesame Rice as a main course, accompanied by a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. The dish pairs well with a light and crisp Japanese beer or a chilled glass of sake.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled koi fish fillets on a bed of sesame rice, ensuring they are placed at an angle for an elegant presentation. Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions. Serve on beautiful Japanese ceramic plates to enhance the visual appeal.