Love Natto? A Beginner’s Tasty Guide

Let’s talk about natto. The strong aroma of natto and its sticky texture make natto a divisive food, even in Japan. But you can learn to love natto. These seven mix-ins are your training wheels for enjoying natto. This is the secret to natto for beginners. They help tame the unique aroma of natto.

Try these with your natto: Scallions, Mayonnaise, Avocado, Sesame Oil, Bonito Flakes, a Soft-Boiled Egg, or Rice Vinegar.

These simple additions make natto delicious. You can enjoy your first bowl of natto.

Choosing Your First Natto

You are ready to buy your first natto. A walk down the aisle at an Asian grocery store shows you have options. This choice is important. Picking the right kind can make your first taste a great one. Don’t feel overwhelmed. We have a simple recommendation for you.

Start with Small Bean Natto

Your best choice for a first try is small bean natto. This type of natto is called kotsubu (小粒) in Japanese. These smaller beans are very popular in Japan for a reason. They are easy to mix with rice. Their texture is chewy and pleasant. It makes your first natto experience much easier and more enjoyable.

You can find many types of natto. Each one offers a slightly different taste and texture. Large beans are called ootsubu, while crushed beans are known as hikiwari.

A Quick Guide to Natto Types 🗺️

Size of Soybeans	Name of Natto
Large	O-Tsubu Natto (大粒納豆)
Small	Ko-Tsubu Natto (小粒納豆)
Crushed	Hikiwari Natto (ひきわり納豆)

Large bean natto can have a stronger smell and a firmer bite. Some people find it less sticky, which might sound good. However, the small beans are prized for their excellent texture when stirred. Crushed natto is also an option, often used in sushi rolls, and has a unique, softer consistency.

For your first bowl, stick with the classic. Small bean natto gives you the authentic texture without being too intense. Look for the words “small bean” or “kotsubu” on the package.

7 Mild Mix-ins for Natto for Beginners

You have your pack of small bean natto. Now comes the fun part: making it taste amazing. These seven mix-ins are your secret weapons. They are simple, familiar, and work wonders to balance the unique flavor and texture of natto. Think of this as your flavor toolkit for natto for beginners.

1. Creamy Mayonnaise

This might sound surprising, but mayonnaise is a game-changer for natto. The rich fat in mayonnaise beautifully cuts through the slightly bitter notes of the fermented beans. Its creaminess also blends with the natto’s stickiness, creating a smoother, milder texture. Japanese mayonnaise, like Kewpie, is a popular choice for its extra-rich flavor.

How to Start: Begin by mixing one teaspoon of mayonnaise into your prepared natto. You can add more until you find the perfect creamy balance for your taste.

This pairing is so good it’s used in many recipes. You can try a delicious rice bowl that combines these flavors.

Tuna, Mayonnaise, Kimchi and Natto Rice Bowl

1. Combine one pack of natto (with its sauce), 2 tablespoons of canned tuna, and 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise in a small bowl.
2. Stir-fry a half bag of bean sprouts in sesame oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Place warm rice in a bowl.
4. Top the rice with the bean sprouts, 50 grams of kimchi, and your natto-tuna-mayo mixture.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions and enjoy!

2. Fresh Scallions

Scallions (or green onions) add a bright, fresh crunch. Their mild, oniony bite provides a fantastic contrast to the soft texture of the natto. The freshness also helps to lift the earthy aroma of the beans, making each bite more vibrant. This is one of the most classic and simple additions.

How to Start: Finely chop one scallion and sprinkle it over your natto after mixing. The fresh green color also makes your bowl look much more appetizing.

3. Mashed Avocado

Do you love avocado toast? Then you will love avocado with natto. Mashed avocado has a buttery texture that merges perfectly with the sticky beans. It adds a gentle, creamy richness that mellows out the natto’s strong flavor. This combination creates a superfood bowl packed with healthy fats and protein.

How to Start: Mash a quarter of a ripe avocado and mix it directly into your natto. The two textures become one, creating a uniquely smooth and satisfying dish.

4. Toasted Sesame Oil

A little drizzle of toasted sesame oil can completely transform your bowl of natto. Its powerful, nutty fragrance is a great way to balance the distinct aroma of the fermented soybeans. The oil also adds a silky mouthfeel and a deep, savory flavor that complements the umami of the natto.

How to Start: A little goes a long way. Start with just a half-teaspoon drizzle over your mixed natto. You want its fragrance to complement the natto, not overpower it.

5. Katsuobushi (Bonito Flakes)

Katsuobushi, or bonito flakes, are paper-thin shavings of dried, smoked tuna. They are a powerhouse of umami flavor. When you add them to natto, they contribute a smoky, savory depth that works in harmony with the fermented beans. The light, fluffy flakes also add an interesting texture as they wilt into the sticky mixture. This is a fantastic pairing for a truly Japanese flavor experience.

How to Start: Sprinkle a small handful of bonito flakes on top of your natto. Mix them in to distribute that wonderful smoky flavor throughout the bowl.

6. Soft-Boiled Egg

A soft-boiled egg is pure magic with natto. When you break the egg, the runny, golden yolk coats every bean, creating a rich and velvety sauce. This luxurious texture makes the entire dish feel incredibly decadent and smooth. The mild flavor of the egg yolk mellows the natto perfectly, making this a top-tier choice for natto for beginners.

Making the perfect soft-boiled egg is easy. Here are two simple methods:

• Room Temperature Egg Method: Bring water to a rolling boil. Gently lower your egg in and cook for 6 minutes. Immediately move it to an ice bath to stop the cooking before you peel it.
• Cold Water Start Method: Place your egg in a pot with cold water. Bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for exactly 3.5 minutes for a very runny yolk.

This egg and natto pairing is not just for rice. You can even make a delicious toast.

Natto Egg Toast

1. Make a simple egg salad by mashing one hardboiled egg with a tablespoon of mayonnaise and some parsley.
2. Spread the egg salad on a slice of bread.
3. Prepare one container of natto with its sauces.
4. Spread the mixed natto over the egg salad.
5. Drizzle a little more mayonnaise on top and toast it in a toaster oven until golden.

7. Rice Vinegar

If you find the natto’s flavor a bit too rich or its aroma too strong, a splash of rice vinegar is your answer. The bright acidity cuts through the earthiness and stickiness, making the dish feel lighter and cleaner. It adds a tangy kick that refreshes your palate with every bite. This is an excellent trick for anyone sensitive to the strong flavor of natto.

How to Start: Add just a quarter-teaspoon of rice vinegar to your natto. Mix it in and taste. It provides a subtle tang that can make a big difference, proving that natto for beginners can be a delightful experience.

How to Eat Natto: A Step-by-Step Guide

You are ready to prepare your first bowl of natto. This simple process is key to unlocking its best flavor. Learning how to eat natto is easy. Follow these five steps for a perfect experience. This method is part of a traditional Japanese breakfast.

Step 1: Open the Pack

First, open your natto container. You will see a thin plastic film covering the beans. Carefully peel this film away. The natto will be very sticky, so do this slowly. You will also find two small packets inside: one with karashi (Japanese mustard) and one with tare (a savory sauce). Set these aside for now.

Step 2: Stir the Beans Vigorously

This is the most important step! Before adding anything, you need to stir the natto. Use your chopsticks to whip the beans in a circular motion. You will see white, sticky threads form and the texture will become creamy. This vigorous stirring reduces the strong aroma and develops umami.

Pro-Tip from Japan 🇯🇵 Some natto lovers say you should stir the natto 400 times for the best flavor and texture. You don’t have to count, but stir at least 50 times until it looks frothy.

Step 3: Add Sauce and Mix-ins

Now it is time for flavor. Open the sauce and mustard packets that came with your natto. Drizzle them over the stirred beans. This is also the perfect time to add any of the mix-ins we talked about, like chopped scallions or a spoonful of mayonnaise.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

Mix everything one more time. Stir just enough to combine the sauce and your chosen additions with the natto. This ensures every bean is coated in delicious flavor. Your bowl of natto is now perfectly prepared and ready to eat.

Step 5: Serve with Warm Rice

The classic way to enjoy natto is over a bowl of warm, steamy rice. This combination is a staple of a traditional Japanese breakfast. The warmth of the rice complements the natto and helps to mellow its unique aroma. This guide on how to eat natto will help you enjoy this healthy food.

Beyond the Basics: More Ways to Enjoy Natto

You’ve mastered the basics and found a mix-in you love. Now you are ready to explore more exciting ways to eat natto. This versatile food shines in many dishes beyond a simple rice bowl. You can easily incorporate natto into meals you already enjoy. Let’s look at a couple of creative ideas to get you started.

Natto Spaghetti

This might sound unusual, but natto spaghetti is a popular fusion dish in Japan. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy natto in a familiar pasta dish. The recipe is simple and delicious. You just toss hot spaghetti with butter, soy sauce, and your prepared natto. The heat from the pasta melts the butter and helps the sticky natto coat every noodle.

For a classic touch, top your natto spaghetti with finely chopped green onions and thin strips of nori (seaweed). The combination of savory, buttery noodles and the unique umami of natto is a true winner.

Natto with Chili Oil

If you like a little heat, adding chili oil to your natto is a must-try. The spicy kick cuts through the richness and adds a new layer of flavor. This simple addition can transform your bowl of natto. Once you see how easy it is to customize, you’ll want to try other natto recipes.

Here are a few more ideas to inspire your next meal:

• Natto Toast: Spread natto and cheese on a slice of bread and toast it until golden.
• Natto Omelet: Mix natto into your eggs for a fluffy, protein-packed breakfast.
• Ramen Topping: Add a spoonful of natto to your ramen for extra umami.
• Miso Soup: Stir natto into your miso soup to deepen its savory flavor.

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You now have the secret to enjoying natto for beginners. The key is using simple mix-ins to balance the unique flavor of natto. Start with one or two additions to find your favorite way to eat natto. Besides being tasty, natto is a superfood. Regular natto consumption offers amazing benefits for your health:

• Eating natto helps lower your risk of heart disease.
• This natto is packed with Vitamin K2, which is great for bone health.
• Studies show eating natto can reduce bone loss.

Your journey to loving natto starts now. Pick a mix-in and give this healthy natto a try! 🥑🥚

FAQ

What does natto taste like?

Natto has a very unique flavor. You might notice it tastes savory, a bit nutty, and has a slightly bitter finish. The included sauce adds a salty-sweet taste. Its flavor is complex, which is why mix-ins help you enjoy your first bowl of natto.

Is natto really that healthy?

Yes, it is! These fermented soybeans are a superfood. Natto is packed with protein, fiber, and Vitamin K2, which is great for your bones and heart. Eating natto gives your body many amazing health benefits.

Where can I find natto?

You can usually buy natto at Asian grocery stores. Look for it in the refrigerated or frozen section, often near the tofu. Many stores carry different types of natto, so you can find the small bean natto we recommended.

Can you eat natto every day?

Absolutely! Many people in Japan eat natto daily, often for breakfast. A single pack of natto is a perfect serving size. Eating natto regularly is a great habit for your health. Enjoy your daily natto with different toppings to keep it interesting! 😋