Discover Japanese natto: Taste, nutrition and best recipes

Japanese natto is an iconic part of Japan’s culinary heritage, famous for its unique texture, pungent aroma, and impressive health benefits. Whether you’ve tried it or are just curious, natto is a versatile ingredient that’s often used in traditional Japanese food. In this guide, Japan With Love shares some of the best natto recipes to help you explore the delicious and nutritious world of fermented soybeans natto.

1. What is Japanese natto?

Natto is more than just a dish, it’s a cultural staple in Japan. Fermented soybeans create the base for this nutrient-packed superfood, often enjoyed for breakfast and commonly featured in many Japanese food and beverage traditions because of its nutritional value and simplicity. While it may be an acquired taste for some, natto with rice is the traditional and most straightforward way to consume it.

Packed with protein, vitamins, and probiotics, it promotes gut health, boosts immunity, and supports heart health. If you're looking for an easy, affordable, and healthy meal, natto dishes are the perfect option.

Key benefits of natto include:

• A rich source of vitamin K2, essential for bone health
• Probiotics that promote gut health and digestion
• A natural plant-based protein for vegetarians and vegans
• High in fiber, improving digestion and reducing cholesterol
• Boosts immunity, making it a great addition to your diet

2. How does Japanese food natto taste to me?

As someone who has tried natto several times, I can confidently say that its taste is truly unique. The key ingredient, fermented bean Japan, gives it an earthy flavor with a slight bitterness. The texture is sticky, stringy, and, as many describe, slimy. The smell, on the other hand, can be quite pungent, similar to strong cheese, which may take some getting used to. 

However, once you get past these initial sensory experiences, the umami-rich taste starts to grow on you, especially when paired with steamed rice. The fermentation process, which can take up to 24 hours, produces Bacillus subtilis, a beneficial bacterium that not only gives natto its signature texture but also provides health benefits like improved digestion and gut health. 

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The beans themselves are soft with a mild, nutty flavor that blends seamlessly with the bold, fermented taste. Natto is low in calories, with about 100 calories per 100g serving, and packed with protein, vitamin K2, and probiotics, making it a nutritious choice for vegetarians and vegans.

3. What is natto good for?

Natto offers a range of health benefits that make it a great addition to your diet. Rich in probiotics, protein, and other essential nutrients, it supports digestion, boosts immunity, and promotes heart health. Here are a few of the main benefits of Japanese natto food:

• Promotes gut health: Natto contains Bacillus subtilis, a probiotic that helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome. This beneficial bacteria aids digestion, supports the immune system, and improves the balance of good bacteria in the gut.
• Improves digestion: The fiber content in natto beans aids digestion and promotes bowel regularity, helping to reduce bloating and constipation.
• Boosts immunity: The combination of vitamins and antioxidants in natto Japanese dish strengthens the immune system, making it a great addition to your diet for better defense against illnesses.
• Heart health: Natto is rich in vitamin K2, which supports cardiovascular health by preventing calcium build-up in arteries, lowering the risk of heart disease.
• Bone health: The high vitamin K2 content in natto Japanese food is crucial for calcium regulation in bones, improving bone density and reducing the risk of fractures.

4. How to make and enjoy Japanese natto at home

Making natto at home can be a rewarding experience for anyone interested in fermented foods. Here’s how you can recreate this traditional dish from scratch.

4.1 The easy steps to recreate Japanese natto at home

If you’re up for making natto at home, it’s simpler than many people expect, especially once you understand the fermentation basics behind a traditional natto recipe. Here’s what you’ll need before getting started:

Supplies:

• Steamed soybeans
• Natto starter culture
• A fermenting container (a shallow tray is ideal)

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Ingredients:

• 250g dried soybeans
• 1g Bacillus subtilis natto starter
• A pot or pressure cooker
• A thermometer to maintain the correct fermentation temperature
• A shallow tray for fermentation

Steps:

1. Soak soybeans: Soak the dried soybeans in water for at least 12 hours to soften them.
2. Boil: Boil the beans until soft, about 2 hours, or use a pressure cooker for quicker results.
3. Cool and mix: Let the beans cool to about 45°C (113°F). Mix in the natto starter culture.
4. Ferment: Place the beans in a shallow dish, cover loosely, and ferment at 40°C (104°F) for 20-24 hours.
5. Cool and store: After fermentation, let the natto cool to room temperature and refrigerate for 1-2 days to develop its flavor.

4.2 How to enjoy fermented soybeans natto the right way

Once your natto is ready, here’s how to enjoy it like the Japanese do:

• Prepare with rice: The simplest and most traditional way to eat natto is by mixing it with a bowl of steamed rice. You can add soy sauce, mustard, or even a raw egg for extra flavor.
• Add toppings: For added flavor, top your natto with green onions, kimchi, or sesame seeds.
• Incorporate in dishes: Natto can also appear in sushi, soups, and several popular Japanese food dishes where its fermented depth adds a distinct umami layer.

5. Top 5 best Japanese natto supplements to enjoy its benefit in easier ways

If you're not keen on making natto at home but still want to enjoy its benefits, supplements are a great alternative. Here are some top-rated natto supplements available:

1. Jinshundo Natto Bacteria Ex 12000FU
2. Noguchi Nattokinase Supplements
3. Morishita Jintan Nattokinase Supplement
4. Orihiro Natto Kinase Tablet
5. Kobayashi Supplement With Claims & Nattokinase

5.1 Jinshundo Natto Bacteria Ex 12000FU

Jinshundo Natto Bacteria Ex 12000FU is a top-tier nattokinase supplement, offering a powerful 12,000 FU dose that helps promote heart health and improve circulation. By breaking down fibrin, the protein responsible for blood clots, it ensures smoother blood flow and supports overall cardiovascular wellness. Whether you're looking to maintain a healthy heart or simply improve circulation, this supplement delivers maximum benefits with each dose.

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Made from the same powerful enzymes found in Japanese natto beans, Jinshundo provides an easy way to access the many benefits of fermented soybeans natto. It’s an ideal choice for those who want to boost heart health without the hassle of preparing or consuming traditional natto. A convenient and effective solution for supporting cardiovascular health every day.

5.2 Noguchi Nattokinase Supplements

Noguchi Nattokinase Supplements are highly regarded for their ability to improve blood circulation and support heart health. Packed with a concentrated dose of nattokinase, this supplement helps break down fibrin, reducing the risk of blood clots and improving vascular health. If you're looking to manage blood pressure and enhance circulation, Noguchi provides a reliable option.

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With its high potency, this supplement offers the powerful benefits of Japanese natto food in a simple and easy-to-take tablet. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy the advantages of fermented soybeans natto without the strong taste or texture. Simply add it to your daily routine for a heart-healthy lifestyle.

5.3 Morishita Jintan Nattokinase Supplement

If you’re looking for a supplement to improve blood circulation and boost your heart health, look no further than the Morishita Jintan Nattokinase Supplement. Packed with nattokinase, this supplement helps break down fibrin, improving blood flow and reducing the risk of cardiovascular issues. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy circulatory system and prevent heart disease.

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With its straightforward formulation, Morishita Jintan offers an easy way to reap the benefits of fermented bean Japan without any of the preparation. Whether you want to support your vascular health or simply improve circulation, this supplement offers a convenient, effective solution.

5.4 Orihiro Natto Kinase Tablet

The Orihiro Natto Kinase Tablet is a convenient and easy way to incorporate nattokinase into your daily routine. This supplement supports blood circulation and promotes overall heart health. Perfect for busy individuals, it provides all the benefits of fermented soybeans natto in a simple, tablet form, so you can support your cardiovascular system without the need to cook or prepare traditional natto.

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Whether you're looking to improve circulation, manage blood pressure, or simply support a healthy heart, Orihiro Natto Kinase Tablet is an effective and hassle-free way to experience the benefits of Japanese natto food. Add it to your wellness routine for a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.

5.5 Kobayashi Supplement With Claims & Nattokinase

Kobayashi Supplement With Claims & Nattokinase is a trusted choice for those looking to maintain healthy blood pressure and promote better circulation. Known for its quality and reliability, this supplement uses nattokinase to help break down fibrin and improve blood flow, reducing the risk of cardiovascular problems. It’s an excellent addition to any heart health regimen.

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With nattokinase derived from fermented soybeans natto, this supplement provides all the heart-healthy benefits of Japanese natto food without the strong taste. It’s perfect for individuals who want a simple, effective way to support their cardiovascular system, helping you maintain a healthy heart every day.

Now that you've discovered the flavors, textures, and benefits of Japanese natto, it's time to incorporate this superfood into your diet. Whether you prefer it in a classic natto with rice, a flavorful natto sushi, or a comforting natto miso soup, there are countless ways to enjoy this traditional dish. Explore authentic natto products and recipes at Japan With Love today.

FAQs – Common questions about Japanese natto

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Japanese natto:

Why do I feel dizzy after eating natto?

Natto contains high amounts of vitamin K2, which can interact with blood-thinning medications. Always consult your doctor if you're on medication.

Is Japanese natto good for you?

Yes, natto is packed with probiotics, protein, and vitamin K2, providing numerous health benefits like improving digestion and supporting heart health.

Does natto have a lot of estrogen?

Natto contains phytoestrogens, which are plant-based compounds that may mimic estrogen but in much lower quantities than animal sources.

Can natto cause blood clots?

Natto can be helpful for preventing blood clots due to its nattokinase content, which helps break down fibrin, a protein involved in clot formation.

What is the slimy thing in natto?

The sticky, slimy texture in natto is due to the fermentation process, where Bacillus subtilis bacteria create long, stringy proteins.

Minase Suiren

Minase Suiren is a seasoned cultural writer and lifestyle curator focusing on Japanese beauty rituals and everyday aesthetics. She holds a master’s degree in intercultural communication from Waseda University with a research focus on beauty norms and gender identity in modern Japanese media.

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