Deep Dive Into the Ultimate Japanese Superfood - NATTO

Have you ever seen or heard of natto and thought, “Who in their right mind would eat that?” Well, we Japanese do, and many of us love it! (Though, admittedly, not everyone.) I get it, natto can be a bit intimidating. It has a strong smell, a sticky texture, and when you mix it, it turns into a web of stringy goo. Not exactly the most enticing description, right? But hear me out! Once you learn more about it and the incredible health benefits it offers, you might just change your mind. And who knows? It could even become a staple in your fridge too!

Jump to:

• 🫘What is Natto?
• 🏯A Brief History of Natto
• 🥢What Does Natto Taste Like?
• 🍚How is Natto Eaten?
• 💪Health Benefits of Natto
• 🏪Where to Find and Buy Natto
• ✍️Final Thoughts: Is Natto Worth Trying?

🫘What is Natto?

Natto is a traditional Japanese food made by fermenting whole soybeans with the bacterium Bacillus subtilis. It's a breakfast staple in Japan and also used for other dishes such as sushi, salads, noodles, and even toast.

🏯A Brief History of Natto

The origins of natto remain somewhat mysterious, but legend has it that it was accidentally discovered by a samurai lord (Minamoto no Yoshie) back in the 1080's AD. He and his troops were boiling soybeans for their horses when they heard word of a nearby enemy intrusion. They quickly wrapped the beans in rice straws, tied them onto their horses and fled. The still-warm soybeans, combined with the heat of the horses, caused the soybeans to ferment, which turned out to be edible and even appetizing for some.

🥢What Does Natto Taste Like?

Natto has a unique and distinct flavor that... let's just say is an acquired taste. It's a bit difficult to describe but some will say that it's earthy, nutty, and slightly bitter. It also has a lot of umami and depending on the type, can be a bit sweet.

Many people are turned off by it's somewhat pungent aroma (I personally don't think so) but it's also the texture that can be intimidating. The texture can be described by natto's three "S" qualities: sticky, slimy, and stringy, and the more you mix it, the stringier it gets.

However, when mixed with condiments like soy sauce, karashi mustard, or green onions, the flavors blend beautifully, making it a unique and flavorful experience.

🍚How is Natto Eaten?

The traditional and most common way to eat natto is with rice. It’s typically mixed with soy sauce, mustard, and sometimes raw egg or chopped green onions.

There are plenty of other toppings you can add as well. Some of my favorites include: umeboshi (pickled plum), daikon oroshi (grated daikon), kimchi, avocado, shiso, katusobushi (dried bonito flakes), and mentaiko (spicy cod roe).

In recent years, chefs and food enthusiasts have gotten creative, sneaking natto into sandwiches, pasta, and even pizza. While some purists might gasp in horror, these twists can be a great way for newcomers to ease into natto. Though for some, it might just ruin the experience entirely. But hey, that’s for you to decide… no pressure!

Now, if you're a fan of sushi, then I highly recommend making some nattomaki (How to Make Nattomaki Video). The sushi rice and nori masks some of the strong natto flavors which makes it the perfect entry option.

💪Health Benefits of Natto

Natto is considered to be one of Japan's most famous superfoods, which is the main reason why you should be eating it in the first place. Here's why it's so good for you:

• Rich in Protein: Natto's a great plant-based protein source, perfect for vegetarians.
• High in Vitamin K2: Natto is one of the best sources of vitamin K2, which plays a crucial role in bone health by helping calcium bind to bones. It also supports heart health by preventing calcium buildup in arteries.
• Probiotic Powerhouse: Since natto is fermented, it’s loaded with probiotics, which promote a healthy gut microbiome, improve digestion, and strengthen the immune system.
• Supports Heart Health: Natto contains nattokinase, an enzyme that helps lower blood pressure, reduce blood clotting, and improve circulation.
• Rich in Fiber: Natto is a great source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
• Essential Nutrients: Natto contains iron, calcium, magnesium, and other essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall well-being.

🏪Where to Find and Buy Natto

Natto is available pretty much at any grocery or convenience store in Japan, typically sold in small styrofoam packs. Outside Japan, you can find it in many Asian supermarkets, usually in the frozen section. Some online retailers also sell natto, making it accessible no matter where you are. So, no excuses not to try!

✍️Final Thoughts: Is Natto Worth Trying?

If you’re adventurous with food and enjoy exploring unique flavors, natto is absolutely worth trying, not to mention the undeniable health benefits that come with it. While it may take a few tries to appreciate, those who acquire the taste often become lifelong fans.