Introduction
Is natto “strong-flavored”? The real appeal and honest thoughts of Japanese people
What kind of image do you have when you hear “natto”?
A strong smell? Sticky? A bit grotesque?
In fact, natto is a “common thing” for many Japanese people, and many people eat it every day.
However, even among Japanese people, there are some who say they “don’t really like it…”, and it is true that people either like it or dislike it.
This time, we will introduce natto from a Japanese perspective, explaining what kind of food it is, why we eat it, and how to eat it deliciously.
What kind of food is natto?
The true nature of natto: the triple threat of stickiness, fermentation, and health power!
Natto is a traditional Japanese fermented food made by fermenting soybeans with natto bacteria.
It is characterized by its unique smell and sticky, stringy texture, and many people will be surprised by its appearance and texture.
Although the ingredients are very simple, the fermentation process changes the taste and aroma to something completely different.
In Japan, it can be easily purchased at supermarkets and convenience stores, and is also very reasonably priced. It is often eaten as a side dish with rice, especially for breakfast.
Why do Japanese people eat natto?
A staple every morning!? Why do Japanese people love natto?
Natto has long been loved for the reasons that it is **”good for your body,” “easy to eat,” and “delicious once you get used to it.”
In terms of health,
- High protein and low calories
- Rich in dietary fiber
- Vitamin K2 strengthens bones
- Also noteworthy is “nattokinase,” which thins the blood!
In addition, it is a convenient dish that can be prepared quickly even on busy mornings, as it can be easily mixed with rice.
Once you get used to the taste, many fans say, “I can’t live without it!”
Points about natto that surprise foreigners
Smell, appearance, and how to eat…natto culture that confuses first-timers
Here are some points that surprise foreigners when they try natto for the first time.
- Smell: It has a strong, unique smell due to fermentation. It has a similar “habit” to cheese.
- Viscosity: The more you mix it, the more sticky it becomes. This is a characteristic that is rarely found in other food cultures.
- How to eat: Many people are surprised by the style of eating natto by mixing it with raw egg and soy sauce and pouring it over rice.
But in reality, we often hear people say, “I was surprised at first, but once I got used to it, I actually like it!”
Recommended by Japanese people! 5 delicious ways to eat natto
Just as it is? On toast? A collection of surprising “natto arrangement” menus
Natto can be transformed into various dishes depending on how you arrange it.
Here are some ways to eat it that are popular among Japanese people!
- Basic style (soy sauce + mustard + rice)
→First of all, this is the classic style. The heat of the rice softens the natto a little and makes the aroma milder.
- Kimchi natto
→The spiciness of kimchi and the richness of natto go well together! A powerful combination that is also great for your intestines.
- Natto toast
→Just put natto and cheese on buttered bread and bake. Surprisingly delicious!
- Raw egg and natto rice (TKG + natto)
→Mix raw egg and natto for a mellow and rich taste. A popular combination in Japanese households.
- Natto pasta
→Just mix natto, soy sauce, and seaweed into boiled pasta. Easy and healthy Japanese-style pasta.
Actually, it’s attracting attention from around the world! ?
It’s secretly becoming popular in Europe and the United States too! Reasons why natto is starting to spread around the world
In fact, natto has recently been attracting attention as a health food in Europe, the US, and parts of Asia.
- Due to the boom in fermented foods, the image that “natto = good for the intestines” is spreading
- Frozen natto is sold in Japanese restaurants and Asian markets
- More and more people overseas are making their own natto or using freeze-dried natto
It’s because people have likes and dislikes that many people want to “give it a try!”, making it a food that is the talk of the town.
I want to try it! Introducing places where you can eat natto
If you want to try it while traveling, here’s where to go! A list of stores and products that are friendly to natto beginners
For those who are wondering “I’d like to try it, but how do I order it at a store?”, we’ll introduce you to some spots for beginners!
- Natto specialty store “Sendaiya” (Sangenjaya, Tokyo, etc.)
→A wide variety of natto dishes are available, and you can enjoy it like a cafe - “Natto rolls” at conveyor belt sushi restaurants
→It’s easy to eat in sushi style, and it has a mild flavor, so it’s recommended for first-timers! - Natto rice balls at convenience stores
→If you don’t like packaged natto, why not try it with rice balls?
Summary
Natto is a symbol of Japan’s fermentation culture. It’s worth trying at least once!
Many people are surprised by the appearance and aroma of natto, but for Japanese people it is a “familiar taste that is good for both the body and the mind”.
And by trying it, you’re sure to discover something new and have something to talk about!
Please try natto at least once as a memory of your trip.
Your natto experience will surely make Japan even more interesting.