What Is “Natto”? A Guide to Japan’s Fermented Soybeans and How to Eat Them

JAPAN IN
ONE MINUTE


~ Japan’s Mysterious Sticky Superfood ~

Hmm? What’s that smell?
What are you eating, Issy?

You’ve got a sharp nose, Pecco.
Yeah, I’m eating “Natto“.

Natto“? What is that?
Something smells weird….

Natto” is fermented soybeans and a traditional Japanese food.
Pretty healthy stuff, even if it smells a little… intense.

Fermented soybeans?
Sounds suspicious and it looks sticky.
Why does it look so sticky?

That’s one of natto’s special features.
When you stir it, it gets really sticky and forms long threads.
Most people mix it with soy sauce and mustard, then eat it on top of rice.

Once you get used to it, the health benefits are really impressive.
It smells weird but it’s way better than Sweden’s surströmming, which is known as the smelliest food in the world!

Surströmming

Wow… so both Japanese and Swedish people like stinky food.
Now I’m curious. So what’s so good about “natto“?

“Natto” contains protein, vitamin, fiber, and lots of minerals. It’s cheap, easy to find and great for your body.
Even though I don’t love the taste, I try to eat it a few times a month.

But if you don’t like it that much, why are you eating it now?

Good question. I found that adding a raw egg, soy sauce and sliced green onions makes it much tastier.
This combo softens the flavor and makes it easier to enjoy. It’s my go-to “natto” style.”

That actually helped me too. The egg mellows the taste.
For beginners, it’s a gentle way to try “natto“. Pecco, do you want to try some too?

Well… I guess I’ll try it……. maybe tomorrow.

Summary

Natto” is a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans and it’s sticky, smelly but packed with protein, vitamins, fiber, and minerals.

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