Natto

Natto – Japan’s Fermented Superfood

Welcome to The Sushi FAQ’s guide on natto, a cornerstone of traditional Japanese cuisine with a history as rich and complex as its flavor. We want to share with readers exactly what natto is, mostly a mystery to Westerners, its tradition, and the science behind the process of creating it, as, in Japan, it is a quintessential fermented delicacy.

Natto, a staple of Japanese cuisine, represents a remarkable intersection of tradition, nutrition, and the art of fermentation. This fermented soybean product is known for its distinctive texture, flavor, and nutritional profile. Originating from Japan, natto has been consumed for centuries, reflecting the country’s rich culinary heritage and its longstanding appreciation for fermentation processes.

As someone who enjoys natto, Japanese culture, and the fascinating world of fermentation, we want to help educate the reader about this unique food, understand how it is made, look into its history, and explore its multifaceted benefits and flavors. Whether you’re a curious newcomer or a seasoned aficionado, we hope to enrich your knowledge and perhaps even tempt your palate to explore the savory depths of natto.

A Fermentation Marvel of Preservation

Many of us have seen the interesting, pungent, slimy, and fascinating product that is natto. While new to the West, it is an ancient food in Japan, and has become iconic in Japanese culture. And also something interesting and sometimes just the curious in the west, as consumption of sushi and Japanese food increases in reasurants and even homes.

Natto is produced through the fermentation of soybeans with Bacillus subtilis var. natto, a process that significantly alters the beans’ physical and nutritional properties. The resulting product is characterized by a sticky, stringy texture and a pungent aroma (which some find off-putting), attributes that are highly valued in certain culinary traditions but may be an acquired taste for the uninitiated.

Some people see the threads of material that make natto sticky and that alone leads them to not even try to taste it. But natto wouldn’t be natto without it, and it’s not an unusual compound (actually a polysaccaride) that can be found in other fermented foods, like yogurt, kombucha, and kefir.

For those science-minded people, the bacteria engage in a process producing a series of biochemical reactions that result in the formation of a sticky, slimy matrix known as polyglutamic acid. This substance, which accounts for the distinctive slimy texture and stringiness of natto, is a polymer of the amino acid glutamate. It is produced as the bacteria metabolize the proteins and sugars present in the soybeans.

Additionally, the fermentation process leads to the breakdown of proteins into amino acids, contributing to the development of natto’s characteristic pungent aroma and flavor. These changes not only transform the soybeans into a unique culinary product but also enhance their nutritional profile, making natto a rich source of protein, vitamins, and enzymes beneficial to health. The creation of polyglutamic acid and the breakdown of soybean components are pivotal in defining natto’s sensory attributes and its valued place in Japanese cuisine.

Selecting The Proper Soybeans

The fermentation process of natto begins with the careful selection of small, whole soybeans, which are preferred for their ability to ferment well and produce the characteristic texture and flavor associated with high-quality natto and preparation of soybeans. These specific beans of soybeans have been cultivated over centuries, and optimized for natto production. These varieties tend to be smaller and have a higher protein content, which is ideal for fermentation.

Producers cultivated these soybeans due to their ability to produce a more pronounced umami flavor, a firmer texture, or a more appealing appearance after fermentation, for example. This is because the choice of soybean variety can influence the final product’s taste, texture, and nutritional content.

Once picked, the soybeans are then soaked, steamed, and mixed with natto spores (the naturally occurring Bacillus subtilis var. natto, which ultimately give natto its particular taste and smell). The mixture is kept at a consistent temperature to encourage fermentation, a period during which the beans develop their unique sticky texture and flavor. This process not only enhances the odor of the soybeans but also increases their nutritional value, producing enzymes and vitamins that contribute to natto’s proposed health benefits.

The History of Natto

The historical origins of natto can be traced back over a millennium in Japan, where it is believed to have served as a nutritious food source for samurai and traveling monks. Its preservation qualities and nutritional benefits made it an invaluable resource in times of scarcity and long journeys. Over the centuries, natto has evolved from a survival food into a dietary staple, reflecting broader trends in Japanese culinary practices and fermentation techniques. Its history is intertwined with the development of fermentation techniques and reflects the adaptability and innovation of Japanese food culture.

The Nutritional Benefits of This Fermented Bean

Natto is celebrated for its high protein content, essential vitamins (including vitamin K2), minerals, fiber, and the presence of nattokinase, an enzyme believed to have potential cardiovascular health benefits. Its rich nutrient profile is said to support bone health, cardiovascular wellness, and digestive function, making natto a prominent example of functional foods in traditional diets. Its high fiber content also promotes a healthy gut microbiome, showcasing natto’s role in a balanced diet.

Culinary Practices and Learning To Savor Natto

Natto might be an acquired taste for some, but its versatility in Japanese cuisine is unmatched. Traditionally consumed with rice as part of the Japanese breakfast, natto’s role in cuisine has expanded over the years. This reflects its versatility and nutritional value due to the increase in interest and consumption. It can be found in various dishes, from soups to sushi, offering a unique texture and depth of flavor.

Natto might be an acquired taste for some, but its versatility in Japanese cuisine is unmatched. From a topping on rice to incorporating it into recipes for a nutritional boost, there are countless ways to enjoy natto. For those new to natto, starting with small portions or mixing it with familiar flavors may ease the introduction to its unique taste and texture.

Cultural Significance of Natto

Beyond its culinary applications, natto holds cultural significance in Japan, symbolizing a connection to historical dietary practices and the natural environment. Its production and consumption are embedded in rituals and traditions that celebrate the transformative power of fermentation and the enduring importance of soybeans in Japanese culture. Its consumption is steeped in tradition, from the simplistic beauty of natto over warm rice to its role in health and longevity. Understanding natto’s place in Japanese culture and cuisine, we believe provides a deeper appreciation for this fermented delicacy and its continued popularity.

The Global Perspectives and A Possible Superfood

In recent years, natto has transcended its traditional boundaries, gaining recognition as a health food worldwide As awareness of fermented foods and their health benefits grows globally, highlighting the universal relevance of traditional fermentation practices in contemporary nutrition. As awareness of these foods and their health benefits grows globally, natto is gaining popularity beyond Japan.

Its appeal lies not only in its nutritional profile but also in the growing interest in sustainable, plant-based proteins. As more people discover natto, its place in the global pantry is steadily rising, bridging cultures through the shared language of food.

Why We Enjoy Natto

Natto embodies the intricate balance between taste, tradition, and health, serving as a testament to the enduring legacy of fermentation in human diets. Its journey from a historical foodstuff to a modern superfood underscores the dynamic nature of culinary traditions and the ongoing exploration of fermentation’s potential to enhance flavor and nutrition (similar to foods from pickles to cheese). As interest in fermented foods continues to expand, natto offers valuable insights into the complexities of flavor, the benefits of traditional dietary practices, and the global unification of culinary heritage.