Miso Butter Roasted Cabbage Wedges

Miso Butter Roasted Cabbage Wedges is a delicious and savory side dish that takes simple cabbage to the next level with a rich, umami-packed miso butter glaze. The cabbage wedges are roasted to perfection, caramelizing at the edges while remaining tender inside. The miso butter, made with a blend of miso paste, butter, and a touch of garlic, creates a creamy, savory glaze that infuses the cabbage with deep, savory flavors. A sprinkle of sesame seeds and green onions adds a nice finishing touch for extra crunch and freshness.

The first time I made this, I was looking for a vegetable side dish that felt both simple and indulgent, and it turned out to be a showstopper! The combination of rich miso butter and the roasted cabbage is both comforting and flavorful, with a balance of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet notes. What I love most about Miso Butter Roasted Cabbage Wedges is how easy they are to make, yet they feel like an elevated side dish that can go with just about any main course. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or when you want to impress with something different!

Perfect for:

  • Weeknight dinners
  • Entertaining guests
  • Plant-based meals
  • Fans of savory, umami-rich flavors

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why these Miso Butter Roasted Cabbage Wedges will become a staple in your kitchen:

  • Umami Explosion: The miso butter glaze is packed with deep, savory flavors.
  • Easy to Make: A straightforward recipe that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.
  • Perfectly Caramelized: Roasting cabbage enhances its natural sweetness and creates crispy edges.
  • Versatile Side Dish: Pairs well with a variety of mains, from grilled proteins to rice bowls.
  • Great for Vegetarians: A plant-based dish that’s hearty and satisfying.
  • Customizable Flavor: Adjust the glaze with added garlic, ginger, or chili flakes for a personal touch.
  • Elegant Presentation: The wedge shape and caramelized surface make for a visually appealing dish.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the cabbage and glaze in advance for easy assembly.
  • Nutrient-Packed: Cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K, while miso adds probiotics.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: A unique dish that’s sure to impress your dinner guests.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 35 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 150-200 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Fiber: 6g, Vitamin C: 50% DV, Protein: 4g

Ingredients

For the Cabbage Wedges:

  • 1 medium green cabbage, cut into 8 wedges
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Miso Butter Glaze:

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons white miso paste
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Optional Garnish:

  • Toasted sesame seeds
  • Chopped scallions
  • Red pepper flakes

Ingredient Highlights

  • White Miso Paste: Adds a deep, umami flavor to the glaze.
  • Honey or Maple Syrup: Balances the savory miso with a touch of sweetness.
  • Rice Vinegar: Provides a subtle tang that complements the richness of the butter.
  • Sesame Oil: Enhances the nutty, aromatic quality of the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Cabbage:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cut Cabbage: Slice the cabbage into 8 evenly sized wedges, keeping the core intact to hold each wedge together.
  3. Season Cabbage: Place the wedges on the prepared baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.

Roast the Cabbage:

  1. First Roast: Roast the cabbage wedges in the oven for 20 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure even caramelization.

Make the Miso Butter Glaze:

  1. Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine softened butter, miso paste, honey or maple syrup, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Whisk until smooth.

Glaze the Cabbage:

  1. Apply Glaze: Remove the cabbage from the oven and brush each wedge generously with the miso butter glaze.
  2. Second Roast: Return the glazed cabbage to the oven and roast for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and caramelized.

Serve:

  1. Garnish and Plate: Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, chopped scallions, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Miso Butter Roasted Cabbage Wedges:

  • As a Side Dish: Pair with grilled salmon, roasted chicken, or tofu.
  • In a Grain Bowl: Serve over quinoa or brown rice with a drizzle of extra miso butter.
  • With Noodles: Add alongside sesame noodles or ramen for an umami-packed meal.
  • In Wraps: Chop the roasted cabbage and use as a filling for lettuce wraps or tacos.
  • With Roasted Vegetables: Create a medley with other roasted veggies like carrots and sweet potatoes.
  • As a Salad Topper: Cool and slice the cabbage to add to a green salad.
  • With a Dipping Sauce: Pair with a side of spicy mayo or miso-tahini sauce.
  • For Brunch: Serve alongside eggs and avocado for a unique brunch dish.
  • In Sandwiches: Use as a topping for burgers or sandwiches for added texture.
  • As a Main Course: Serve as-is with a side of crusty bread for a simple, satisfying meal.

Additional Tips

  • Choose the Right Cabbage: Use green cabbage or Savoy cabbage for the best texture and flavor. Avoid red cabbage, as it may not caramelize as beautifully.
  • Slice Evenly: Cut the cabbage into wedges of equal thickness (about 1.5–2 inches) to ensure even cooking and caramelization.
  • Preheat Your Oven: A hot oven (around 425°F or 220°C) helps achieve the perfect roast with crispy edges and tender centers.
  • Don’t Skip the Salt: While the miso adds saltiness, a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt enhances the overall flavor.
  • Use Room-Temperature Butter: Softened butter blends more easily with the miso paste, creating a smooth coating for the cabbage.
  • Add a Sweet Note: A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can balance the savory miso and add a touch of sweetness.
  • Flip Halfway Through: To ensure both sides get caramelized, flip the wedges halfway through the roasting time.
  • Customize with Toppings: Garnish with toasted sesame seeds, chopped scallions, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for extra flavor and texture.
  • Watch for Doneness: Roast until the edges are golden brown and slightly crispy but avoid overcooking to keep the cabbage slightly firm in the center.
  • Experiment with Miso: Try different types of miso paste—white miso for a milder taste or red miso for a bolder, umami-packed flavor.

Recipe Variations

  • Spicy Miso Butter: Add chili paste or sriracha to the glaze for a spicy kick.
  • Vegan Option: Replace butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.
  • Red Cabbage Wedges: Use red cabbage for a vibrant twist.
  • Garlic Miso Glaze: Add minced garlic to the miso butter for extra depth of flavor.
  • Nutty Topping: Sprinkle with crushed peanuts or cashews for added crunch.
  • Citrus Miso Glaze: Incorporate a splash of orange or lime juice into the glaze.
  • Herbaceous Finish: Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley instead of scallions.
  • Miso Tahini Glaze: Combine tahini with miso paste for a creamy alternative.
  • Smoked Paprika: Sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika over the wedges before roasting.
  • Asian Fusion: Serve with a drizzle of hoisin sauce or plum sauce.

Special Equipment

  • Pastry Brush: For evenly applying the glaze.
  • Large Baking Sheet: Ensures the wedges have enough space to roast evenly.
  • Mixing Bowl: For preparing the miso butter glaze.
  • Sharp Knife: For cutting the cabbage into neat wedges.
  • Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
  • Spatula: For flipping the wedges during roasting.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use red miso instead of white miso?
    Yes, but red miso has a stronger flavor, so use less to avoid overpowering the dish.
  2. How long do leftovers last?
    Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
  3. Can I grill the cabbage instead of roasting?
    Absolutely! Brush the wedges with olive oil and grill over medium heat until charred and tender.
  4. What can I substitute for butter?
    Use olive oil, coconut oil, or vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
  5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
    Yes, prepare the glaze and slice the cabbage in advance. Roast just before serving.
  6. Can I use napa cabbage instead of green cabbage?
    Yes, but adjust the roasting time as napa cabbage cooks faster.
  7. What’s the best way to achieve crispy edges?
    Roast at a high temperature and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.
  8. Is this recipe gluten-free?
    Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce to make the dish gluten-free.
  9. Can I add protein to this dish?
    Serve with grilled tofu, tempeh, or poached eggs for added protein.
  10. Can I double the recipe?
    Yes, but use two baking sheets to ensure the cabbage roasts evenly.

Conclusion

Miso Butter Roasted Cabbage Wedges are a savory, umami-packed side dish that transforms simple cabbage into a flavorful and satisfying treat. The cabbage wedges are roasted until tender and caramelized, then brushed with a rich miso butter sauce that adds a perfect balance of salty, creamy, and earthy flavors. The miso paste and butter create a smooth glaze that infuses the cabbage, while the roasting brings out a natural sweetness and depth.

This dish is perfect for serving alongside grilled meats, fish, or even as a vegetarian main with a side of grains like rice or quinoa. The roasted cabbage wedges offer a deliciously unique twist on traditional cabbage and can be easily customized with a sprinkle of sesame seeds, fresh herbs, or a dash of chili flakes for a bit of spice.

I can’t wait to see how your Miso Butter Roasted Cabbage Wedges turn out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!