Translation and Meaning of: 味噌 - miso

The word 「味噌」 (miso) is a combination of two kanji with distinct but complementary meanings. 「味」 means "flavor" or "taste," while 「噌」 refers to "fermented paste." Together, these characters form the word for the well-known fermented Japanese condiment. The etymology of miso dates back to the Nara period (710-794), when it began to be produced and consumed regularly in Japan.

Miso is a traditional Japanese paste made from soybeans and other ingredients, such as rice or barley, fermented with the fungus known as koji. The fermentation process lasts from a few months to a few years, depending on the type of miso desired. The variety of miso can be classified into three main groups: 「赤みそ」 (aka miso), or red miso, 「白みそ」 (shiro miso), or white miso, and 「合わせみそ」 (awase miso), which is a blend of the two. Each type offers a unique flavor and intensity, used in different dishes and regions of Japan.

The origin of miso is interesting because the fermentation technique was initially introduced to Japan through China. However, over the centuries, miso evolved to become an integral part of Japanese cuisine, distinct in flavor and preparation from the fermented soybean pastes of other countries. Some popular legends claim that the production of miso began with Buddhist monks, who used their food preservation techniques to survive during long periods of meditation.

Eating miso is more than just adding a pleasant flavor to food; it is also a cultural and traditional practice. From the samurai era to modern kitchens, miso has been appreciated for its nutritional properties, as well as its characteristic umami flavor. Rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals, the paste has been considered a superfood by many, fitting a variety of diets and dietary preferences.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• みそ (miso) - A paste made from fermented soybeans, commonly used in Japanese cuisine.
• 味噌 (miso) - Another term for the soy paste famous in Japanese cuisine, similar to みそ.
• 味噌糊 (miso no ko) - Miso paste, used as a base for sauces or seasonings.
• 味噌漬け (miso zuke) - Miso paste marinated foods, usually vegetables.
• 味噌汁 (misoshiru) - Miso soup, a traditional Japanese soup made with broth and miso.

味噌

Romaji: miso
Kana: みそ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n4

Translation / Meaning: miso; bean paste; point (main) point

Meaning in English: miso;bean paste;key (main) point

Definition: It is made from the grinding and fermentation of soybeans or grains, and is one of the seasonings used in Japanese cuisine.

Example Sentences - (味噌) miso

See below some example sentences:

味噌汁は寒い日にぴったりです。

Miso shiru wa samui hi ni pittari desu

Missô soup is perfect for cold days.

• 味噌汁 - miso soup
• は - Topic particle
• 寒い - Cold
• 日 - day
• に - target particle
• ぴったり - perfect, suitable
• です - verb to be in the polite form
• . - Period