The Correct Way to Eat Natto, the Delicious Japanese Superfood

Natto, a traditional Japanese fermented soybean dish, is renowned for its unique texture and robust flavor, making it a nutritious and versatile addition to various meals. To fully appreciate natto, it's essential to understand the correct way to prepare and enjoy it.

How to Prepare Natto

Preparing natto is straightforward but requires some care to enhance its flavor and texture.

1. Opening the Package:

   • Start by opening the natto package and removing the clear film on top. This can be done using the "Tornado Method" or "Slide Method" to avoid getting your hands sticky.

2. Mixing the Natto:

   • Once the film is removed, mix the natto thoroughly with chopsticks until it becomes sticky and well combined. Some experts recommend mixing it up to 400 times to bring out the umami flavor.

3. Adding Sauce and Mustard:

• The package usually includes a special sauce and Japanese mustard (karashi). Pour these over the natto and mix again until everything is well combined.

Popular Ways to Enjoy Natto

Natto can be enjoyed in various ways, each offering a unique flavor profile and texture.

Natto Gohan (Natto over Rice)

• Basic Preparation: Place the prepared natto over a bowl of warm Japanese rice. This is one of the most common and versatile ways to enjoy natto.
• Toppings: Enhance the dish with toppings such as chopped scallions, daikon radish, kimchi, boiled egg, or avocado. For added flavor, drizzle with soy sauce or sprinkle with bonito flakes.

Natto on Toast

• Breakfast Option: Spread natto on toast, paired with butter, mayonnaise, or cheese. This is a popular breakfast combination in Japan.

Natto with Other Ingredients

• In Sushi: Mix natto into sushi rolls for a unique twist.
• With Pasta: Combine natto with pasta for a nutritious and flavorful meal.
• In Miso Soup: Add natto to miso soup for an extra boost of nutrients.
• With Kimchi: Mix natto with kimchi over rice for a spicy and savory dish.

Tips for First-Time Eaters

For those new to natto, the strong smell and gooey texture can be intimidating. Here are some tips to make it more palatable:

• Mix with Stronger Flavors: Combine natto with ingredients like kimchi, garlic, or vinegar to mask the smell and enhance the flavor.
• Add to Familiar Dishes: Incorporate natto into dishes you already enjoy, such as omelets, pasta, or salads.
• Use Different Sauces: Experiment with various sauces like soy sauce, wasabi, or mayonnaise to find a flavor you like.

Storing Natto

To keep natto fresh, follow these storage tips:

• Refrigerate: Store natto in the refrigerator, where it will last about 10 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze natto, which can last up to a month.

Making Natto at Home

For those who cannot find natto in local stores, making it at home is a viable option.

• Natto Starter Kits: Purchase natto starter kits, which include natto spores and a measuring spoon. You will need to buy soybeans separately.
• Fermentation Process: Boil the soybeans, mix with the natto spores, and keep them warm overnight to ferment.

By following these steps and tips, you can fully appreciate the unique flavor and nutritional benefits of natto, making it a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.