Why Edamame is the Superfood You Need – 3 Simple Recipes to Enjoy

Edamame is easily found in American supermarkets and makes a great snack or side dish with drinks. I was surprised to learn it’s considered a "superfood" on a recent Japanese TV show!
It’s packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Here, I’ll share its benefits and 3 simple recipes!

Is edamame a "bean" or a "vegetable"?

Actually, it’s a bit of both! Edamame is technically a vegetable, but it contains the nutrients of both a bean and a vegetable.
It’s often said that "soybeans are the meat of the field," and edamame is just immature soybeans. So, in addition to the high-quality plant-based protein, fats, and energy found in soybeans, edamame is also rich in vitamins, like a vegetable. Eating edamame gives you the benefits of both soybeans and vegetables—what a bonus!

Edamame as a beer snack makes perfect sense!

In Japan, many people associate edamame with beer snacks!
In fact, there's a solid reason behind this combination.
The methionine found in the protein of edamame helps break down alcohol, along with vitamins, easing the burden on the liver.
Of course, moderation in alcohol consumption is always important.

Here are three simple edamame recipes: 

Simple salted edamame is always the best!
But if you're looking to add a little twist and enjoy a different flavor, here are three easy recipes that take your edamame experience to the next level.
They're super simple to make, so give them a try!

Edamame Aglio e Olio (Garlic and Olive Oil Style)

【 Ingredients 】

• Edamame (frozen) - about 200g (half of a typical frozen package)
• Olive oil - 1 tablespoon
• Garlic - 1 to 2 cloves (adjust to your preference)
• Dried chili peppers - a pinch (adjust to your preferred spice level)
• Salt & pepper - a pinch (adjust to your preference)

【 Instructions 】

1. Heat olive oil in a pan on low heat. Add minced garlic and dried chili peppers, sautéing until fragrant.
2. Add the cooked or thawed edamame to the pan and toss to coat evenly.
   
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. (Optional: Add grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.)
4. Alternatively, for a Hawaiian twist, try seasoning with soy sauce and mirin, finishing with a drizzle of sesame oil for an aromatic touch!

Edamame Rice Balls (Onigiri)

Just mix warm cooked rice with shelled edamame and your choice of ingredients. Using frozen shelled edamame and an onigiri mix makes this recipe quick and easy!

Edamame Miso Soup

Simply use edamame as an ingredient in your miso soup!
You might find the idea of edamame in miso soup unusual, but it’s actually a traditional dish in Yamagata Prefecture, Japan.
When I made it using salted edamame, the soup turned out too salty, so adjusting the miso paste amount is essential.

Edamame is a superfood that combines the benefits of soybeans and vegetables. It’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrition.
Give these edamame recipes a try and enjoy the versatility of this amazing ingredient!