Japanese Food Tips

Natto (Fermented Beans)

June 12, 2017

Natto

Natto

Sticky natto after stirring

Sticky natto after stirring

Sticky natto when pulled up

Sticky natto when pulled up

Natto (fermented beans) is a very famous Japanese fermented food. Soybeans are fermented with bacillus natto, and it is a healthy food which includes rich dietary fiber. Stirring natto with chopsticks makes it sticky and it becomes like a thread when picked up. The more you stir, the stickier the chopsticks become. Some people like it and others strongly dislike it because of its distinctive smell and texture. To eat natto, stir in soy sauce and condiments (such as chopped leeks and bonito flakes) and serve over rice. Once you eat natto, you will either decide you do not want to ever eat it again, or you might like eating such a messy and stinky dish. Which type are you? If you have a chance, why not try natto?

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