Not sure what edamame is? In short, they’re the green beans that are served as appetizers at your favorite Japanese izakaya and that “magical” up-and-coming vegetable you’re friend won’t stop raving about. Edamame is a young soybean that is harvested before the beans become hard and mature. I’m sure we’ve all heard that soybeans are nutritious and it’s no different for these immature green beans as well. There’s a reason why every person that’s into eating well is interested in edamame.

Health Benefits

If you’re anything like me, you won’t jump on a food trend unless there’s a health benefit. Lucky for us, edamame is packed with amazing nutrition values.

・1.Rich in Antioxidants

Edamame is rich in antioxidants. Not sure what antioxidants are? They’re pretty much the chemicals that fight off or prevent the damage to your cells. Antioxidants play a role in boosting your immune system and are also widely praised for having anti-aging benefits.

・2.Lower Your Cholesterol

Getting worried about your cholesterol? If so changing your diet is a must. High cholesterol can lead up to several diseases such as a heart attack, stroke, and diabetes to name a few. Despite the fact that edamame has a somewhat buttery taste, it can bring down your cholesterol level. The next time you watch a movie, ditch your popcorn and opt for a bowl of edamame instead.

・3 High-Protein

I’m sure we’ve all heard that protein is critical to good health. Protein is a component of every cell in the body. Meaning it can be found in the bones, hair, skin and muscle tissues. Edamame is considered as a complete protein as a complete protein as it contains all nine amino acids. Incorporating edamame into your diet is a simple way you can fuel and support your body. If you’re vegan or vegetarian and are looking for a good source of protein, edamame can be an easy way you can substitute high-protein animal foods.

How to Boil Edamame Like a Pro

Are you completely hooked with the bowl of edamame served at Izakayas? Follow the recipe below to learn how you can recreate the perfect salt-boiled edamame at home.

・Ingredients

・Edamame 200g
・Salt 40g (15g for preparation, 25g for adding in the boiled water)
・Water 1L

・Instructions

1. Place your edamame in a bowl and rinse with water. Cut off the stem end of each pod.

2. After you’ve washed the edamame, add 15g of salt and rub the edamame with the salt. Following this step will make the beans appear greener and will also add a savory flavor.

3. Put 1L of water in a large pot and start boiling.

4. Add the rest of the salt in the boiling water. Also, add the edamame to the pot. (Do not rinse off the salt from the edamame.) Boil for 3 to 5 minutes. After boiling the edamame for 3.5 minutes, check the pot to see if the edamame has softened.

5. Drain edamame in a colander and spread them on a tray or plate to cool down.

And there you have it, the perfect batch of slightly salty edamame.

Top Image @Leon Brocard