Miso Butter Roasted Cabbage Wedges

Last Tuesday my kitchen smelled like caramelized sugar and sea salt, the kind of aroma that makes neighbors pause at your door. I had three heads of cabbage from my impulse farmers market purchase, and this miso butter transformation saved me from yet another coleslaw. The wedges came out golden with edges so crisp they shattered, while the centers stayed meltingly tender. My roommate took one bite and asked if this could be our weekly dinner forever.

I made these for a dinner party where half the guests swore they hated cooked cabbage. The platter was empty before I could even sit down. One friend actually licked the miso butter off her fingers and asked for the recipe while still chewing. Thats when I knew this wasnt just another vegetable side.

Ingredients

• 1 medium green cabbage: The core keeps the wedges intact while roasting so they stay perfectly presentable
• 60 g unsalted butter: Room temperature softness is crucial here or your brushing will tear the delicate leaves
• 2 tbsp white miso paste: This salty fermented paste is the secret weapon that makes everything taste better
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup: Balances the saltiness and helps those edges caramelize beautifully
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar: Adds just enough brightness to cut through the rich butter
• 1 tsp toasted sesame oil: A little goes a long way for that aromatic depth
• 1 garlic clove: Grate it directly into the butter so it disperses evenly
• Garnishes: Toasted sesame seeds and spring onions make everything feel complete

Instructions

Heat your oven:

220°C creates that perfect golden crust we are after

Prep the cabbage:

Cut into wedges but leave that core attached or everything will fall apart

Make the magic sauce:

Whisk butter miso honey vinegar sesame oil and garlic until silky smooth

Brush generously:

Coat every surface because those caramelized edges are the whole point

Roast until golden:

Flip halfway through so both sides get that gorgeous brown color

Finish with love:

Sesame seeds and fresh onions add the perfect crunch and pop

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Now whenever cabbage goes on sale I grab at least two heads. This recipe has become my backup plan for unexpected guests or lazy weeknight dinners when I want something comforting but not heavy.

Getting The Best Caramelization

The real secret is patience during that last 5 minutes of roasting. I used to pull them out too early and miss those gorgeous crispy edges. Now I wait until I see deep golden brown spots and the cabbage smells slightly sweet like roasted vegetables should.

Make It Your Own

Sometimes I add chili flakes to the butter mix when everyone is feeling adventurous. Other times a squeeze of fresh lime right before serving wakes everything up beautifully. The miso butter base is forgiving and welcomes experimentation.

Serving Ideas

These wedges work as a side dish or stand alone as a light main with steamed rice. I have also crumbled feta over leftovers for lunch the next day.

• Serve alongside grilled fish or simple roasted chicken
• Add a fried egg on top for a complete vegetarian dinner
• Reheat in a skillet to revive the crispy texture

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Simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. Thats the kind of cooking that keeps me coming back to my kitchen night after night.

Common Questions

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, absolutely! To make it vegan, simply substitute the unsalted butter with a high-quality plant-based butter. Ensure you use maple syrup instead of honey if avoiding all animal products. Also, double-check that your chosen miso paste is certified vegan.

→ What type of miso paste is best for this?

White miso paste is highly recommended for this particular dish. Its mild, slightly sweet, and savory flavor profile beautifully complements the cabbage and butter without overpowering the other ingredients. If you prefer a bolder umami, a light yellow miso could also work.

→ How do I achieve crispy edges on the cabbage?

For delightfully crispy edges, preheating your oven to a high temperature (220°C/425°F) is crucial. Also, ensure there's ample space between each cabbage wedge on the baking tray to allow for proper air circulation. Turning the wedges once halfway through roasting will also promote even browning and crispness.

→ What are good serving suggestions for these wedges?

These versatile roasted cabbage wedges make an excellent side. They pair wonderfully with grilled fish or chicken, pan-seared tofu, or even as a flavorful component in a grain bowl. They also stand well on their own as a light, satisfying vegetarian option.

→ Can I add spice to the miso butter?

Certainly! If you enjoy a touch of heat, you can easily incorporate some spice. A pinch of chili flakes stirred into the miso butter mixture before brushing will add a subtle warmth. For more intensity, a dash of sriracha or a small amount of finely minced fresh chili could be added.