(みそ)

みそ
noun
miso
1. miso, fermented soybean paste
A traditional Japanese seasoning made from fermented soybeans. Used in soups, sauces, and marinades.
This miso is sweet.
Miso is good for your health.
There is white and red miso, and preferences differ by region.

味噌(みそ) is fermented soybean paste, a fundamental ingredient in Japanese cuisine.

VARIETIES:

  • 白味噌(しろみそ): white/sweet miso (Kyoto style)
  • 赤味噌(あかみそ): red miso (stronger flavor)
  • ()わせ味噌(みそ): mixed miso

COMMON COMPOUNDS:

  • 味噌汁(みそしる): miso soup
  • 味噌(みそ)ラーメン: miso ramen
  • 味噌(みそ)()け: miso-marinated

IDIOMS:

  • 手前味噌(てまえみそ): self-praise, tooting one's own horn
  • 味噌(みそ)をつける: to fail, to mess up

CULTURAL NOTE:
味噌汁(みそしる) is a daily staple in Japanese households, often served at breakfast. Regional varieties reflect local tastes and ingredients.