Ever Heard You Should Try Natto?
But wondered... what exactly is natto? Recently, more news has erupted about fermented soybeans being healthier than standard cooked soybeans. To answer your question... natto is a vegan dish made from fermented soybeans that become sticky and gooey. They are often served with rice, but can also be seen in many other dishes, including ice cream.
I've always wondered how soybeans are actually fermented. Have you?
Well, they are actually washed and then soaked for about a day. Then they are steamed. After all this, they are mixed with a special bacteria at a high temperature for another day, which breaks down the protein in the beans. After cooling and resting for a few days, the beans become sticky and stringy, and look a bit like cheese. At this point, the product is ready to be served. These fermented soybeans are great for your health. It reduces the risk for blood clotting, heart attacks, strokes, antioxidants, osteoporosis, and several cancers. It has a good amount of vitamins K, C, E, B, and PQQ, as well as selenium.
It also is a great source of protein as soybeans contain all the amino acids that the human body needs to make a complete protein. For vegans, it is a great addition to your diet since it provides a good source of vitamin B12. Rather than having to add a pill, you can just supplement with foods that are naturally high in the vitamin you need. These fermented soybeans have been eaten for thousands of years in Japan. There, it is eaten with rice, typically for breakfast. Sometimes the Japanese mix it with sugar, soy sauce, or hot mustard. It has a strong smell, like cheese. Some people find the flavor hard to get used to, and others think it is bland. I guess it depends on who you ask! It can be hard to find in the United States, but your best bet is at Asian supermarkets and possibly health food stores. Some restaurants do serve it as well.
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