Sweet and Savoury Miso Fudge: A Unique Culinary Delight
Formal Explanation:
Sweet and Savoury Miso Fudge is a delectable fusion of traditional sweet fudge with the umami-rich flavors of miso paste, creating a unique and mouthwatering treat that perfectly balances sweet and savory notes. This innovative twist on classic fudge combines the creamy sweetness of traditional fudge with the deep, complex flavors of miso, resulting in a delightful confection that can be enjoyed as a dessert or even a gourmet snack.
Casual Explanation:
Imagine the best of both worlds in a single bite – that’s Sweet and Savoury Miso Fudge! It’s like your regular sweet, melt-in-your-mouth fudge, but with a twist. We add miso paste, which gives it this incredible savory kick that blends surprisingly well with the sweet creaminess.
History:
The history of Sweet and Savoury Miso Fudge is a tale of culinary experimentation and creativity. While traditional fudge has been enjoyed for centuries, the fusion with miso is a relatively recent innovation. This culinary masterpiece likely emerged as chefs and food enthusiasts sought to push the boundaries of flavor combinations.
Components:
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Miso Paste: This is the star ingredient that imparts the unique savory depth to the fudge. You can choose between white, red, or brown miso, depending on your preference for intensity and flavor complexity.
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Sweetened Condensed Milk: This provides the classic fudge sweetness and creamy texture.
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Butter: Butter adds richness and a velvety consistency to the fudge.
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Sugar: A bit of extra sugar is used to balance the umami flavors of miso and the sweetness of the condensed milk.
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Vanilla Extract: Vanilla adds a pleasant aroma and complements the sweet notes.
Steps to Prepare Sweet and Savoury Miso Fudge:
Note: This recipe makes about 24 small pieces and takes approximately 2 hours from start to finish.
Formal Steps:
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Gather Your Ingredients: Collect miso paste, sweetened condensed milk, butter, sugar, and vanilla extract.
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Prepare a Pan: Line a square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
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Melt Ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the miso paste and sugar, stirring until well combined.
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Incorporate Condensed Milk: Pour in the sweetened condensed milk while continuing to stir. Keep the heat low and stir constantly until the mixture thickens and begins to pull away from the sides of the pan. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
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Add Vanilla: Remove from heat, and stir in the vanilla extract.
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Pour and Cool: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
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Chill: Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour until it’s completely set.
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Cut and Serve: Once set, use the parchment paper overhangs to lift the fudge from the pan. Cut it into small squares and serve.
Casual Steps:
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Gather Your Stuff: Get your miso paste (the secret weapon), condensed milk (the sweet stuff), butter (the creamy dude), sugar (a bit more sweetness), and vanilla extract (for that extra oomph).
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Pan It Up: Line a square baking pan with parchment paper. Hang it over the edges so you can easily lift out your fudge later.
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Melt ‘n Mix: Toss the butter into a saucepan over low heat. Stir in the miso and sugar until it’s all buddy-buddy.
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Go Sweet: Pour in the condensed milk, and keep stirring until this mix thickens up. It should take about 15-20 minutes of TLC.
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Vanilla Magic: Remove from the heat, sprinkle in some vanilla extract, and stir that in.
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Pour and Chill: Dump this delightful concoction into your pan. Flatten it out with a spatula, so it looks all neat.
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Cool Story, Fudge: Let it cool at room temp for 30 minutes, then pop it in the fridge for at least an hour until it’s set.
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Slice ‘n Dice: Once set, lift it out with the parchment paper, slice it into squares, and voila! Your Sweet and Savoury Miso Fudge is ready to rock.
Time Needed:
The entire process, from gathering your ingredients to enjoying the fudge, typically takes around 2 hours. This includes preparation, cooking, cooling, and cutting. It’s well worth the effort for a unique and delicious treat that blends the sweet and savory in perfect harmony.
Nutrition Facts for Sweet and Savoury Miso Fudge
Note: The following nutrition information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.
- Serving Size: 1 piece (assuming the recipe makes 24 pieces)
Calories:
- Calories per serving: Approximately 110-130 calories
Macronutrients:
- Protein: 2-3 grams
- Carbohydrates: 14-18 grams
- Dietary Fiber: Less than 1 gram
- Sugars: 12-15 grams
- Fat: 5-7 grams
- Saturated Fat: 4-5 grams
Micronutrients:
- Sodium: 60-80 milligrams
- Potassium: 50-70 milligrams
Vitamins:
- Vitamin A: Approximately 2-4% of the daily recommended intake (DRI)
- Vitamin C: Less than 1% of DRI
- Calcium: 4-6% of DRI
- Iron: 1-2% of DRI
Health Information:
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Moderate Calories: One piece of Sweet and Savoury Miso Fudge provides a moderate amount of calories, making it a suitable treat when consumed in moderation.
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Moderate Protein: This fudge contains a small amount of protein, which is essential for muscle health and overall body function.
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Carbohydrates: It is relatively high in carbohydrates, mainly due to sugar and condensed milk. Carbohydrates provide energy but should be consumed in moderation.
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Sugars: The fudge contains a significant amount of sugars, which contribute to its sweet taste. Be mindful of your sugar intake, especially if you have dietary restrictions or health concerns related to sugar consumption.
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Fat: The fudge contains a moderate amount of fat, primarily from butter and condensed milk. It’s important to consume such treats in moderation to maintain a balanced diet.
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Saturated Fat: Saturated fat is present due to the butter and condensed milk. High consumption of saturated fat is linked to various health issues, so enjoy this fudge as an occasional treat.
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Sodium: The sodium content is relatively low, which is good for individuals who need to monitor their salt intake.
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Vitamins and Minerals: While the fudge provides small amounts of vitamins and minerals, it is not a significant source of these nutrients. It’s important to obtain essential nutrients from a varied diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Overall Health Considerations:
Sweet and Savoury Miso Fudge is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in moderation. Due to its relatively high sugar and fat content, it’s best reserved for occasional indulgence rather than daily consumption. If you have specific dietary restrictions or health concerns, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist before including such treats in your diet.