If you're looking to impress with minimal effort, this Miso-Glazed Sea Bass is your ticket. The savory-sweet miso glaze gives the fish a beautifully rich flavor that feels fancy but is incredibly easy to make at home.
Sea bass fillets are the star, offering a tender, flaky texture that pairs perfectly with the glaze. The white miso paste brings umami depth, while mirin and sake add a hint of sweetness and a touch of acidity. Soy sauce rounds out the saltiness, and brown sugar enhances the caramelization of the glaze. Sesame oil adds a nutty aroma, with ginger and garlic providing a warm, aromatic base. Finally, sesame seeds and green onions add a fresh crunch and pop of color.
This Miso-Glazed Sea Bass pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or a side of sautéed bok choy. A crisp cucumber salad can also complement the rich flavors of the fish. Don't forget the lemon wedges for a zesty finish!
First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. In a small bowl, combine the miso paste, mirin, sake, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Whisk until it forms a smooth, fragrant glaze.
Lay the sea bass fillets on the baking sheet, skin-side down if applicable. Brush them generously with the miso glaze, ensuring even coverage for maximum flavor absorption. Let the fish sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This brief marination allows the flavors to meld beautifully with the fish.
Once marinated, place the sea bass in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-18 minutes. Keep an eye on it, looking for an opaque appearance and easy flaking with a fork. When done, remove from the oven and sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a fresh finish.