5 Delicious Natto Recipes for Beginners

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 Natto is a traditional Japanese fermented soybean dish known for its strong aroma, unique flavor, and sticky texture. While its taste might seem intense for newcomers, natto is packed with health benefits including probiotics and dietary fiber, which support gut health. If you're just starting to explore the world of natto, these five simple recipes will help you ease into enjoying this nutritious ingredient.



1. Natto Toast

Ingredients:

  • 1 pack of natto
  • 1–2 slices of whole wheat bread
  • ½ avocado, sliced
  • A dash of soy sauce (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon of sesame oil (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Toast the whole wheat bread until it’s nice and crispy.
  2. In a small bowl, mix the natto with a dash of soy sauce or sesame oil if desired.
  3. Spread the natto mixture on the toast and top with fresh avocado slices.
  4. Enjoy a crunchy and creamy start to your day!

2. Natto and Vegetable Bibimbap

Ingredients:

  • 1 pack of natto
  • 1 bowl of cooked rice
  • Pre-cooked vegetables such as spinach, bean sprouts, and carrots
  • 1 tablespoon of gochujang (or your favorite spicy sauce)
  • A drizzle of sesame oil
  • A sprinkle of sesame seeds

Instructions:

  1. Arrange the cooked rice in a bowl.
  2. Top the rice with your pre-cooked vegetables and place the natto on top.
  3. Drizzle with gochujang, sesame oil, and sprinkle sesame seeds.
  4. Mix everything together thoroughly before eating for a burst of flavors and textures.

3. Natto Salad

Ingredients:

  • 1 pack of natto
  • A mix of salad greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
  • Sliced cucumber and tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon of lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, cucumber, and tomatoes.
  2. Add the natto on top of the vegetables.
  3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Toss gently to mix the ingredients while keeping the natto’s texture intact.

4. Natto Rice Bowl

Ingredients:

  • 1 pack of natto
  • 1 bowl of hot steamed rice
  • 1 egg (prepared as scrambled or sunny-side up)
  • 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
  • Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Place the steamed rice into a bowl.
  2. Top with the natto and gently stir in the soy sauce.
  3. Add the cooked egg on top—whether it’s scrambled or a perfectly runny sunny-side up.
  4. Garnish with chopped green onions and enjoy a comforting, protein-packed meal.

5. Natto Smoothie

Ingredients:

  • 1 pack of natto
  • 1 banana
  • 1 cup of almond milk (or your preferred plant-based milk)
  • 1 teaspoon of honey (optional, for extra sweetness)

Instructions:

  1. Combine the natto, banana, and almond milk in a blender.
  2. Blend until the mixture is smooth.
  3. Taste and add honey if you prefer a sweeter smoothie.
  4. Pour into a glass and savor this unique, nutrient-rich smoothie that’s perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.

Embracing natto in your diet can be an exciting culinary adventure. These recipes not only help you overcome the initial hesitation with its strong flavor but also allow you to enjoy its many health benefits. Give these recipes a try and discover a new way to boost your gut health and overall well-being!

Happy cooking and enjoy your natto journey!

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