Japanese Superfood Natto ( 納豆 – fermented soybeans )

My everyday breakfast is Natto! How much I love Natto, I want so many people to know how amazing Natto is but I also understand that for a lot of people it is not their favorite because of the unusual smell and sticky texture!

 

What is Natto？（meaning）

Natto is considered a Japanese super food! This is one of the most traditional Japanese breakfast menu items. In the US, so many households have pancakes with eggs and bacon. In Japan, Natto, Rice, and Miso soup is considered a classic for breakfast!

Natto is made from fermented soybeans. Natto usually sells in a 4-inch square containers with soy sauce and karashi mustard.

 

Is Natto good for your health?

Yes it is. Because of the fermenting process, nutrients that soybeans don’t originally have are added. One of these nutrients is nattokinase which disassembles the protein that causes blood clots and helps to prevent arteriosclerosis. Natto also helps you have a good intestinal environment and prevent lifestyle-related diseases.

Natto also helps with skin problems and osteoporosis.

 

What is Hikiwari Natto?

Hikiwari Natto is soybeans that are crushed and fermented. It is usually used for cooking such as Natto sushi, Natto toast, and so on. It is smaller, so It’s easy to use for cooking.

 

Natto and rice is a classic way to eat

There are people who eat just Natto by itself, but usually Natto is eaten with rice.

 

How to eat Natto

 

Where can I buy Natto?

If you go to Asian grocery stores, they usually have Natto. Unfortunately I have never found Natto in local grocery stores in the US. So if you are interested in Natto, please go to one of your local Asian grocery stores and try it!