Are you ready to spice up your meals with a fermented soybean sensation? Look no further! Natto, a Japanese staple made from boiled soybeans, has gained popularity worldwide for its unique flavor and texture. With its nutty aroma and sticky consistency, natto can elevate even the most basic dishes into bold and exciting creations.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility of natto in various cuisines. From savory rice bowls to spicy noodle dishes, and from comforting soups to innovative sushi rolls, each recipe is carefully crafted to bring out the best flavors of this underrated ingredient.
Natto and Avocado Rice Bowl
Start your day with a nutritious and flavorful bowl filled with the creamy richness of avocado, the savory umami of natto, and the warmth of Japanese-style rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 1/2 cup natto (fermented soybean dish)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: sliced green onions, grated ginger for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook Japanese-style rice according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add natto and stir-fry until warmed through.
3. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce with 1 tablespoon of water. Pour the mixture over the natto and stir-fry for another minute.
4. Divide cooked rice into two bowls. Top each bowl with a scoop of natto mixture, diced avocado, and a sprinkle of salt to taste.
5. Garnish with sliced green onions and grated ginger if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Natto Udon Noodles
Experience the bold flavors of Japan with this spicy and savory udon noodle dish, elevated by the creamy richness of natto.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of udon noodles
– 2 cups of water or dashi broth (Japanese cooking stock)
– 1/4 cup of natto
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan, cooking for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the natto and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Add the cooked udon noodles to the pan, tossing to combine with the spicy natto mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Natto Miso Soup with Tofu
This traditional Japanese soup is a staple in many households, and with the addition of tofu and natto, it becomes a nutritious and flavorful meal. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as a comforting treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups dashi broth (or vegetable broth)
– 1/4 cup natto
– 2 tablespoons miso paste
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1 green onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: wakame seaweed or shiitake mushrooms for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring the dashi broth to a simmer.
2. Add the natto and whisk until dissolved.
3. Stir in the miso paste until well combined.
4. Add the tofu cubes and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with green onion slices and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Natto and Kimuchi Roll
This Japanese-inspired sushi roll combines the creamy richness of natto with the spicy kick of kimchi, wrapped in a crispy nori seaweed sheet. Perfect for adventurous eaters looking to spice up their snack game!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked natto
– 1/4 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1/2 avocado, sliced
– 1/4 cucumber, sliced
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Lay the nori sheet flat on a cutting board.
2. Spread the cooked natto across the center of the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at each end.
3. Top with chopped kimchi and sliced avocado.
4. Add sliced cucumber to one end of the roll.
5. Roll the nori tightly, applying gentle pressure.
6. Slice into 8 equal pieces using a sharp knife.
7. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Garlic Butter Natto Toast
Elevate your breakfast game with this creamy, savory, and nutritious toast recipe. Garlic butter and natto come together to create a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup natto
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your toaster or conventional oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and minced garlic until well combined.
3. Toast the bread slices until lightly browned.
4. Spread the garlic butter evenly onto each toast slice.
5. Top each slice with natto, breaking it up into small pieces if needed.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (includes toasting time)
Natto and Scrambled Eggs
Start your day with a flavorful and nutritious breakfast by combining the creamy, umami-rich natto with fluffy scrambled eggs. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick morning meal or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup natto
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter or non-stick cooking spray
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until well-beaten.
2. Heat the butter or non-stick cooking spray in a medium-sized pan over medium heat.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and scramble the eggs until they’re cooked to your liking.
4. In a separate small bowl, mix the natto with a fork until it’s smooth and creamy.
5. Add the natto to the scrambled eggs and stir gently to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Natto Sushi with Quail Eggs
This recipe combines the creamy texture of natto with the delicate flavor of quail eggs, all wrapped up in a traditional sushi roll. Perfect for adventurous eaters looking to try something new.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup natto (fermented soybean paste)
– 1/2 avocado, sliced
– 4 quail eggs, hard-boiled and halved
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Mix cooked natto with a splash of water until smooth.
3. Lay nori sheet flat and spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place a few slices of avocado and a halved quail egg in the middle of the rice.
5. Spread a small amount of natto mixture on top of the filling.
6. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands.
7. Slice into individual pieces and serve with soy sauce and wasabi.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Natto and Cucumber Salad
This simple salad combines the creamy, fermented goodness of natto with the cooling crunch of cucumber, perfect for a light and revitalizing meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup natto
– 2 large cucumbers, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions or grated ginger for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
2. Add the natto to the bowl and stir until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cucumber slices and red onion.
4. Pour the natto mixture over the cucumber mixture and toss gently to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions or grated ginger if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Natto Okonomiyaki
This classic Japanese savory pancake gets a nutritious boost from nattō, fermented soybean paste. Enjoy the umami flavor and texture combination with this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup nattō (fermented soybean paste)
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup grated daikon radish
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions
– 2 tablespoons okonomiyaki sauce
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and nattō.
2. Add water gradually, mixing until smooth batter forms.
3. Add daikon radish, green onions, and season with salt and pepper.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or okonomiyaki pan over medium heat.
5. Pour in 1/4 cup of the batter and cook for 2-3 minutes.
6. Spread okonomiyaki sauce and mayonnaise on top.
7. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, until pancake is crispy and golden.
8. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes per serving
Natto and Cheese Omelette
Natto and Cheese Omelette: A Savory Twist on a Classic Breakfast Dish
This recipe combines the creamy texture of cheese with the sticky, savory goodness of natto to create a unique omelette that’s sure to start your day off right.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup natto
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 tablespoon grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Heat the butter in a small non-stick pan over medium heat.
3. Pour the egg mixture into the pan and cook until the edges start to set, about 30 seconds.
4. Sprinkle the natto and cheese evenly over half of the omelette.
5. Use a spatula to gently fold the other half of the omelette over the filling.
6. Cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, until the cheese is melted and the eggs are fully cooked.
7. Slide the omelette out of the pan onto a plate and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Natto Gyoza Dumplings
A twist on traditional Japanese gyoza, this recipe incorporates the savory and umami flavors of nattō (fermented soybeans) into a delicious pan-fried dumpling. Perfect for a unique appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package round wonton wrappers
– 1/2 cup nattō, chopped
– 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together chopped nattō, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place a small spoonful of the nattō mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press edges together to seal.
4. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add dumplings and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Natto and Seaweed Onigiri
Onigiri, Japanese rice balls, are a classic snack or meal accompaniment. In this recipe, we add the savory umami flavor of natto (fermented soybeans) and the crunchy texture of seaweed for an added boost.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 2 tablespoons natto
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Prepare the rice according to package instructions.
2. Mix in the natto and salt until well combined.
3. Cut the nori sheet into desired shapes (e.g., triangles or squares).
4. Shape a small amount of the rice mixture into a ball, then flatten slightly into an oval shape.
5. Place a piece of seaweed on top of the rice, folding it over to create a neat package.
6. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None (all ingredients are pre-cooked)
Natto Stir-Fry with Pork
This recipe combines the savory goodness of natto with the richness of pork, all wrapped up in a flavorful stir-fry. The fermented soybean paste adds a unique umami taste that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup natto
– 1 lb pork strips (such as loin or tenderloin)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the onion and garlic and stir-fry until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the natto, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using) to the pan. Stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. Return the pork to the pan and stir-fry everything together for about 1 minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes.
Natto and Pickled Radish Wrap
This Japanese-inspired wrap combines creamy natto with crunchy pickled radish and fresh cilantro, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla. Perfect for a quick and easy snack or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup natto
– 1/4 cup pickled radish, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 large tortilla
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
2. Spread the natto on one half of the tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
3. Top with pickled radish slices and chopped cilantro.
4. Fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling to form a triangle or fold inwards to create a square shape.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2 minutes (assembly only)
Natto Pasta with Garlic Sauce
This recipe combines the creamy, umami flavor of natto with the richness of garlic sauce, all wrapped up in a satisfying pasta dish. Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or spaghetti work well)
– 2 tbsp natto
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Stir in natto and chicken broth. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
4. Combine cooked pasta with garlic-natto sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Natto and Fermented Soybean Stew
This hearty stew combines the creamy texture of natto with the savory flavor of fermented soybeans, creating a nutritious and delicious meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup natto
– 1/2 cup fermented soybeans (such as douang or hongbao)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 4 cups water or dashi broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the natto and fermented soybeans; cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Pour in the water or dashi broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Natto and Green Onion Pancakes
Natto and Green Onion Pancakes Recipe
Natto, a traditional Japanese fermented soybean dish, adds a unique flavor and texture to these savory pancakes. This recipe combines the earthy taste of natto with the pungency of green onions for a delicious breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup natto (Japanese fermented soybeans)
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add natto, green onions, and water to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
3. Beat in the egg.
4. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
5. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop batter onto the pan.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until bubbles appear and edges are dry.
7. Serve warm with soy sauce or ponzu dressing.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on pancake size)
Natto and Tuna Donburi
This hearty donburi dish combines savory natto with tuna and rice, perfect for a satisfying meal. The creamy texture of the natto pairs well with the rich flavor of the tuna, making this a unique and delicious combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 1/2 cup canned tuna (drained)
– 1/4 cup natto (fermented soybeans)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (Japanese cooking wine)
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook Japanese rice according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, mix together tuna, soy sauce, sake, and sugar until well combined.
3. Add the natto to the tuna mixture and stir until smooth.
4. Place cooked rice in a donburi bowl or individual bowls.
5. Spoon the tuna-natto mixture over the rice.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Natto, a fermented soybean dish from Japan, is often misunderstood as being bland or smelly. However, it’s a treasure trove of bold flavors just waiting to be unleashed! In this article, we’ve curated 18 mouth-watering natto recipes that will take your taste buds on a thrilling ride. From savory rice bowls and spicy noodle dishes to creative sushi rolls and hearty stir-fries, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re a natto newbie or an aficionado, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get cooking!
