Chayote and Edamame Miso Slow Cooker Stew

🍽️ Recipe Overview

• Cuisine : Japanese
• Dietary Focus : High-Fiber, Balanced
• Allergens : Soy
• Calories : 652 per serving
• Serves : 3
• Equipment : Slow Cooker
• Skill Level : Hard
• Preparation Time : 20 minutes
• Cooking Time : 4 hours

👨‍🍳 Chef's Notes

To enhance the umami flavor, allow the stew to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

⭐ Why This Recipe Works

Slow cooking the chayote and edamame with miso allows the flavors to develop fully while maintaining the integrity of the vegetables. The longer cooking time ensures a tender and flavorful stew that is perfect for a comforting meal.

🧾 Ingredients

• 2 chayotes, peeled, seeded, and cubed (about 500g / 17.6 oz)
• 1 cup frozen edamame beans (150g)
• 4 cups vegetable broth (960ml)
• 3 tablespoons white miso paste (45g)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon mirin
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

🔪 Preparation

1. Peel, seed, and cube the chayotes.
2. In a small bowl, mix the miso paste with a bit of the vegetable broth to form a smooth paste.
3. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger.
4. Slice the green onions for garnish.

🥘 Cooking Instructions

1. In the slow cooker, combine the vegetable broth, miso paste, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, mirin, and chili flakes. Stir well.
2. Add the cubed chayotes and frozen edamame beans to the slow cooker.
3. Cook on low for 4 hours or until the chayotes are tender.
4. Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. Serve the stew hot, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

⏱️ Timing Breakdown

• Preparation: 20 minutes
• Cooking: 4 hours on low in the slow cooker

📊 Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 652 kcal
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 97g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 20g

🔄 Variations & Substitutions

• For a high-protein option, add cubed tofu or cooked chicken to the stew.
• To make it low-carb, reduce the amount of chayote and add more edamame.
• For a different flavor profile, try using red miso paste instead of white miso.

💡 Pro Tips

• Adjust the miso paste amount based on your preference for saltiness.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or bok choy for added texture and flavor.

🌡️ Storage Instructions

• Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the stew if needed.