Individual variations in flavor [in homemade miso paste] were a source of great pride for each home, and the expression Temae miso desu, ga (“I do not want to boast about my miso, but…”) was born from this pride. This expression, a very Japanese kind of metaphoric apology, is still used as a preface when people discuss their own or a family member’s success or accomplishment. “I don’t want to brag about my miso,” a parent might say, “but my daughter was just accepted by Harvard University.”
Today, most of the miso consumed in Japan is produced in large factories by shortened methods. As people get less and less chance to savor the wonderful flavor of homemade miso, the use of the delightful expression Temae miso desu, ga is falling out of favor.
—The Japanese Kitchen, Hiroko Shimbo
