ChefXi OfficialA soulful collision of Basque tradition and Thai aromatics, this crustless cheesecake features the savory depth of white miso and the creamy essence of coconut.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with two overlapping sheets of parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends at least 2 inches above the rim. Crinkle the paper for that authentic rustic look.
The crinkles help create the iconic Basque burnt edges.
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until completely smooth and the sugar has dissolved. Use a spatula to scrape the sides to ensure no lumps remain.
Ensure your cream cheese is truly at room temperature for a silky finish.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated into the cream cheese mixture.
Don't overbeat; you want to avoid adding too much air.
Whisk the white miso paste into the coconut cream until smooth, then pour this mixture into the batter along with the vanilla bean paste and sea salt. Mix until the essence of the coconut and miso is evenly distributed.
White miso adds a soulful 'umami' depth that mimics aged dairy.
Sift the cornstarch over the batter and fold it in gently with a spatula until no white streaks remain. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Place the pan in the center of the oven and bake until the top is deeply browned, almost charred in spots, and the center still has a distinct jiggle when shaken.
The 'jiggle' is vital; it will firm up into a custard-like texture as it cools.
Remove from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. For the best provenance of flavor, refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight before unmolding and serving.
Serve at room temperature to let the coconut and miso notes sing.
The secret here is the 'burnt' top—don't be afraid of a little char; it provides the bitter contrast necessary to balance the richness of the coconut and miso. Use a high-quality white miso for its delicate, salty-sweet profile. Let it chill completely before slicing for the most velvety texture. Taste the history of fusion in every bite.
Nutrition data is estimated and may not be fully accurate. This is not medical advice — consult a registered dietitian or healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
Prices shown reflect the estimated cost of the portion used in this recipe, not the full item price. Actual costs may vary by store and location.