This seeded miso sweet potato bread recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and savory, perfect for any time of day. The earthy sweetness of the sweet potato pairs beautifully with the umami richness of miso, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. The added seeds bring a satisfying crunch and a boost of nutrition.
This bread is surprisingly easy to make, even if you’re new to baking. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies and whole grains, and the kids will love it too! If you enjoy experimenting with unique flavors, you might also like this chocolate pound cake. Whether you’re enjoying a slice for breakfast, packing it for lunch, or serving it as a side at brunch, this seeded miso sweet potato bread is sure to become a new family favorite.
Why this Seeded Miso Sweet Potato Bread is Special
What sets this bread apart is the unique combination of sweet potato and miso. This dynamic duo creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting. Plus, the addition of seeds adds a wonderful texture and a healthy dose of fiber and nutrients. For a different kind of savory bread, check out this German buns recipe. The result is a moist, tender, and incredibly flavorful loaf that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mashed cooked sweet potato (about 1 medium): Make sure your sweet potato is cooked until very soft for the best texture. Roasting brings out extra sweetness!
- 1/2 cup white miso paste: This adds a savory depth of flavor. Look for it in the refrigerated section of your grocery store, usually near tofu.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Adds moisture and richness. You can also use melted coconut oil or another neutral oil.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup: Provides sweetness and balances the savory miso. Honey or agave nectar are good substitutes.
- 1 large egg: Helps bind the ingredients and adds richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: This provides structure. You can substitute whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor, but the bread may be slightly denser.
- 1 cup whole wheat flour: Adds a touch of whole grain goodness and texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: The leavening agent that helps the bread rise.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Works with the baking soda for a light and airy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors.
- 1/4 cup mixed seeds (such as sunflower, pumpkin, sesame, and flax): Adds a delightful crunch and nutritional value.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose and whole wheat flours with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to use a blend that is designed for baking bread. Looking for other ways to use sweet potatoes? This Bharta recipe with egg is a delicious option.
- Miso Substitute: If you don’t have miso paste, you can try using tahini or a soy sauce/ nutritional yeast combination for a similar umami flavor, but the taste will be different.
- Egg Substitute: For a vegan version, you can replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce.
- Sweetener: Feel free to swap maple syrup with honey or agave nectar if desired. Adjust the amount to your preferred sweetness. Granulated sugar will also work, but may alter the final texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan. This will prevent the bread from sticking. You can also use parchment paper for easier removal.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potato, miso paste, olive oil, maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is smooth and combined. A whisk works great for this step.
- Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread tough. A few lumps are okay!
- Fold in Seeds: Gently fold in the mixed seeds. Make sure they are distributed throughout the batter.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling on a wire rack prevents the bottom of the bread from getting soggy.
- Slice and Serve: Once cooled, slice and serve your delicious seeded miso sweet potato bread. This bread pairs well with a variety of dishes. For some inspiration, check out these healthy soup recipes.
Visual Cues for Doneness
The bread is done when it’s golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should also spring back lightly when gently pressed. If the toothpick comes out with wet batter, bake for a few more minutes and check again. Don’t worry if the top gets a little dark; you can always tent it with foil towards the end of baking. If you’re looking for a quick and easy meal to serve with your bread, try this Asparagus Lemon Pasta recipe.
Tips and Variations
- Roast the Sweet Potato: For an even deeper, caramelized sweetness, try roasting the sweet potato instead of boiling or steaming it. Simply cube the sweet potato, toss with a little olive oil and salt, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
- Add-ins: Get creative with your add-ins! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or dried cranberries would be delicious in this bread. You can also add a swirl of cinnamon sugar before baking for an extra treat. Just sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and sugar over the batter in the loaf pan and swirl it in with a knife or toothpick. For those curious about the health benefits of sweet potatoes, this article provides a great overview.
- Seed Variations: Experiment with different types of seeds. Try using all sunflower seeds, or a combination of pumpkin and sesame seeds. You can even add some chopped nuts along with the seeds for extra crunch and flavor.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of maple syrup to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet bread, reduce the amount to 2 tablespoons.
- Miso Intensity: For a stronger miso flavor, use a darker variety of miso paste. White miso is milder, while red miso has a more intense, fermented flavor. If you enjoy miso-based recipes, you might also like this Ahi Tuna recipe.
Flavor Enhancements
- Spice it Up: Add a warm, cozy touch with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger. A teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a half teaspoon of ground ginger would be delicious.
- Herby Goodness: Fresh or dried herbs can add a savory dimension. Try adding a tablespoon of chopped fresh rosemary or thyme to the batter.
- Citrus Zest: A little bit of orange or lemon zest can brighten up the flavors.
Making it Ahead
You can make the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just let it come to room temperature before baking. The baked bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of miso paste?
Yes, you can use different types of miso paste, but the flavor will vary. White (shiro) miso is the mildest, while red (aka) miso is the strongest. Yellow (awase) miso falls somewhere in between. Using a darker miso will result in a more intense, savory flavor.
How do I store the seeded miso sweet potato bread?
Store the cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it (see below). Proper storage helps prevent mold and maintain freshness.
Is this bread suitable for freezing?
Yes, this bread freezes well. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. This helps maintain the bread’s texture and flavor.
Can I make this bread vegan?
Yes, you can make this bread vegan! Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce. Be sure to check your miso paste to ensure that it does not contain any animal products (like bonito flakes which are sometimes added).
Serving and Enjoying Your Seeded Miso Sweet Potato Bread
This seeded miso sweet potato bread is incredibly versatile. It’s delicious toasted with a little butter or your favorite spread. It also makes a wonderful accompaniment to soups and salads. Try it alongside a hearty chili or a fresh green salad. It’s even sturdy enough to use as a sandwich base. Get creative! How will your family enjoy this bread? Share your serving suggestions in the comments below! This is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for all ages, from little ones to grown-ups.
Conclusion
This seeded miso sweet potato bread recipe is a true gem. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious combination of sweet potato and miso. Don’t forget to share your baking experience and any variations you try in the comments below! For more delicious and easy bread recipes, check out my whole wheat banana bread or my easy sourdough starter guide. Happy baking!