Get ready to spice up your meals with the nutritional powerhouse that is fermented natto! For those unfamiliar, natto is a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans and has a distinctive slimy texture. But don’t let its unusual appearance deter you – natto is packed with vitamins, minerals, and probiotics that can have a significant impact on your health. Whether you’re looking to boost your energy levels, support digestive health, or simply add some excitement to your meals, natto is the perfect ingredient to get creative with.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious and nutritious fermented natto recipes that are sure to inspire your culinary adventures. From savory pasta dishes to sweet sushi rolls, we’ve got a recipe for every taste bud and dietary preference. So let’s dive in and discover the incredible world of fermented natto!
Spicy Natto Avocado Toast
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this unique fusion of Japanese and Mexican flavors! This Spicy Natto Avocado Toast combines creamy avocado, spicy natto, and crispy bread for a flavorful treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices whole wheat bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/4 cup natto (fermented soybeans)
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Mix the natto with lime juice, sriracha sauce, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
4. Spoon the natto mixture over the avocado.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Natto Miso Soup with Tofu
This Japanese-inspired soup combines the savory flavors of natto, miso paste, and tofu to create a comforting and nutritious meal. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Natto (fermented soybeans)
– 2 cups Water
– 2 tablespoons Miso Paste
– 1/4 cup Firm Tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1 tablespoon Soy Sauce (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water and natto. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and add miso paste. Stir until dissolved.
3. Add tofu cubes and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until heated through.
4. Season with soy sauce (if using) and salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Natto Pasta
This recipe combines the richness of garlic butter with the unique flavor and texture of natto, a traditional Japanese ingredient. The result is a creamy, savory pasta dish that’s perfect for adventurous eaters.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup natto (fermented soybeans)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in natto and cook for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Combine cooked pasta, garlic-natto mixture, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Natto and Kimchi Fried Rice
This recipe combines the creamy fermented soybean goodness of Natto with the bold, sour kick of Korean kimchi. The result is a savory, umami-packed fried rice dish that’s perfect for adventurous eaters.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 1/4 cup Natto (fermented soybeans)
– 1/2 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Stir-fry the rice for about 5 minutes, adding the Natto and kimchi during the last minute of cooking.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes.
Natto Sushi Rolls with Cucumber
Experience the unique flavor of Japan with this simple recipe that combines the fermented soybean goodness of natto with refreshing cucumber and sushi rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice (sushi rice)
– 2 tablespoons natto
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon sushi vinegar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Mix the cooked rice with natto and a pinch of salt until well combined.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a surface.
4. Spread a thin layer of the natto-rice mixture onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Place a few slices of cucumber in the middle of the rice.
6. Roll the sushi using your fingers or a bamboo sushi mat to shape into a compact roll.
7. Slice into 8 equal pieces and serve with soy sauce and pickled ginger (optional).
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Natto Omelette with Cheese
Start your day off right with this creamy and savory omelette that combines the unique flavor of natto, a fermented soybean dish, with melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup natto
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 slice of cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Beat the eggs in a bowl and set aside.
2. Heat the butter in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
3. Pour in the eggs and cook until the edges start to set, about 30 seconds.
4. Sprinkle the natto evenly over half of the omelette.
5. If using cheese, place it on top of the natto.
6. Use a spatula to gently fold the other half of the omelette over the filling.
7. Cook for an additional 30-45 seconds or until the cheese is melted and the eggs are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Natto and Scallion Pancakes
These crispy pancakes combine the creamy umami of natto with the pungency of scallions, perfect for a quick snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup natto
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup scallion greens, chopped
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Add natto and mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add water to form a smooth batter.
4. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
5. Brush the pan with a small amount of oil.
6. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan and sprinkle with chopped scallions.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
9. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes per batch.
Natto Salad with Sesame Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the unique flavor and texture of natto, a fermented soybean product, with crunchy vegetables and a nutty sesame dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup natto
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1 cup thinly sliced cucumber
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, natto, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey until smooth.
3. Add sesame seeds to the dressing and whisk until well combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Natto and Egg Rice Bowl
This simple and savory rice bowl recipe combines the creamy, umami flavor of natto with the richness of a fried egg, all on top of fluffy Japanese-style rice. Perfect for a quick and easy breakfast or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese-style rice (preferably short-grain)
– 2 tablespoons natto
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce, sesame oil, chopped scallions, pickled ginger
Instructions:
1. Cook Japanese-style rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Crack the egg into the pan and cook until the whites are set and the yolks are cooked to your desired doneness.
3. In a separate pan or microwave-safe bowl, warm the natto by stirring in a little water or microwaving for 10-15 seconds.
4. To assemble the rice bowls, place a scoop of cooked rice onto a plate or bowl, followed by a spoonful of warmed natto and a fried egg on top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then add any desired garnishes.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Natto Stir-Fry with Vegetables
A simple and nutritious stir-fry recipe that combines the unique flavor of natto with colorful vegetables, perfect for a quick and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked natto
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; stir-fry until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the bell pepper and mushrooms; cook until they start to soften, about 4 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked natto, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the flavors are well combined.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Natto and Seaweed Soup
This Japanese-inspired soup combines the creamy, umami flavor of natto with the briny goodness of seaweed, creating a nutritious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup natto
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons dried wakame seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium pot.
2. Add the dried wakame seaweed and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until rehydrated.
3. Stir in the natto and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
4. Taste and adjust with soy sauce (if using) and salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Natto Wrapped in Shiso Leaves
This recipe combines the creamy, savory goodness of natto with the bright, herbaceous flavor of shiso leaves. The result is a refreshing and unique snack or appetizer that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup natto
– 4-6 shiso leaves (perilla leaves)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shiso leaves with cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Place a small spoonful of natto onto the center of each leaf.
3. Fold the leaf over the natto, forming a neat package.
4. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Natto and Pickled Radish Bites
These bite-sized treats combine the creamy fermented soybeans of natto with the tangy crunch of pickled radish, perfect for a quick snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup natto
– 1/4 cup pickled radish (such as daikon), thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together natto, soy sauce, and sesame oil until well combined.
2. Spoon about 1/4 teaspoon of the natto mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper.
3. Place one or two slices of pickled radish on top of the natto.
4. Fold the plastic wrap or parchment paper over to form a triangle, and press gently to seal.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: None! These bites are ready to eat immediately. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Natto with Soy Sauce and Mustard
This simple recipe combines the fermented soybean goodness of natto with the bold flavors of soy sauce and mustard, creating a deliciously savory condiment perfect for rice bowls, noodle dishes, or as a dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup natto
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Japanese mustard (such as karashi)
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce and Japanese mustard until well combined.
2. Add the natto to the bowl and stir gently to coat with the soy-mustard mixture.
3. Add the water and continue stirring until the natto has reached your desired consistency (some people like it thick and gloopy, while others prefer a thinner texture).
4. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: 2 minutes
Natto and Tuna Sashimi Bowl
Experience the harmony of Japan’s fermented soybean dish, Natto, paired with fresh tuna sashimi in a simple yet elegant bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup Natto (fermented soybeans)
– 6 oz sushi-grade tuna sashimi
– 1/4 cup short-grain Japanese rice
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sliced green onions, grated daikon, and pickled ginger for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Natto according to package instructions (usually by stirring well).
2. Cook Japanese rice according to package instructions.
3. Slice the tuna sashimi into thin pieces.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the bowl by placing cooked rice at the bottom, followed by Natto, then tuna sashimi.
6. Drizzle the soy-sesame dressing over the top.
7. Garnish with optional ingredients, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Natto and Quinoa Power Bowl
This vibrant bowl combines the nutritional powerhouse of quinoa with the probiotic-rich goodness of natto, perfect for a quick and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 tablespoons natto
– 1/2 cup roasted sweet potato, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the roasted sweet potato and cook for 2-3 minutes until caramelized.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and natto until smooth.
4. To assemble the bowls, divide the cooked quinoa between two bowls. Top with the caramelized sweet potato, cilantro, and natto-soy sauce mixture.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Natto and Sweet Potato Hash
This recipe combines the creamy fermented soybean goodness of natto with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, all wrapped up in a crispy hash. Perfect as a side dish or light breakfast option.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup natto
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions and grated ginger for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat natto over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
4. Add roasted sweet potatoes to the skillet with the natto. Stir to combine.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and grated ginger if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Natto and Spinach Gyoza
This recipe combines the creamy texture of natto with the earthy taste of spinach, wrapped in a crispy gyoza wrapper. The perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup natto
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine natto, spinach, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place a small spoonful of the natto 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 the edges together to seal the gyoza.
4. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the gyoza for 2-3 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce!
Natto and Mushroom Risotto
This creamy risotto combines the savory flavor of natto with the earthy richness of mushrooms, creating a harmonious balance of textures and tastes. Perfect as a side dish or main course, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/4 cup natto, drained and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously until absorbed before adding more.
4. After 20 minutes of cooking, add mushrooms and garlic. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown.
5. Stir in natto and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Natto and Fermented Soybean Stew
This Japanese-inspired stew is a perfect blend of textures and flavors, combining the creamy natto with fermented soybeans. Serve it over rice or noodles for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup natto
– 1/2 cup fermented soybeans (such as miso)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine natto, fermented soybeans, vegetable broth, soy sauce, sake, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Add sliced onion and minced garlic; cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in grated ginger and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Nutrient-rich natto, a fermented soybean product, is the star of these innovative recipes. From savory pasta dishes to refreshing salads, and from spicy sushi rolls to hearty bowls, natto’s unique flavor and texture add depth and excitement to any meal. Discover how to incorporate this nutritious ingredient into your daily routine with 20 delicious and easy-to-make recipe ideas, such as Spicy Natto Avocado Toast, Garlic Butter Natto Pasta, and Natto Stir-Fry with Vegetables. Get creative and boost your health with these tasty natto recipes!
