Lasagna, a beloved Italian dish, is a versatile canvas for culinary experiments. While traditionally miso paste is not part of Italian cuisine, incorporating it can offer an unexpected umami twist to this classic dish. Chef Tara Punzone, author of “Vegana Italiana,” suggests that for an Asian fusion style lasagna, miso paste can bring the desired umami boost.
When considering how to incorporate miso into lasagna, it may not be immediately apparent. Chef Punzone recommends adding miso paste to the cheeses used in the lasagna to infuse them with a bold fermented flavor, enhancing the overall depth of the dish.
Despite lasagna’s strong ties to Italy, its origins can be traced back to Ancient Greece where it was known as laganon. Over time, lasagna has evolved and diversified globally, with modern variations often deviating from the traditional Italian recipe. The evolution of lasagna into a dish laden with sauce and cheese presents an opportunity for ingredients like miso to shine, especially in vegan versions where umami-rich elements can compensate for the absence of meat.
Aside from miso paste, there are other ways to infuse umami into lasagna. For a subtler approach, soy sauce can be added to the pasta sauce, while Japanese soup stocks like dashi can bring depth to a white sauce. Incorporating nori can introduce a salty, oceanic element to seafood or traditional lasagna, striking a balance between Italian and Japanese flavors and offering a fresh take on a timeless favorite.
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