Not everyone knows what an Edamame is. Perhaps you know them better with the name fresh green soybeans or sweet beans. Yup, perhaps you recognized what it is when the name soybean was mentioned.
The edamame is a popular finger food in Asian countries such as Japan and China. Thus, the word Edamame comes from the Japanese. They are also often used in salads, stir fry dishes and soups. Let’s get to know more about this bean and learn how to cook edamame with this helpful information below.
Edamame is an edible bean that comes in pairs. These beans can be found inside this green pod and has that sweet and nutty flavor in it. They are high in protein and are easy on the stomach.
Aside from that, it is also a good source of Calcium, Fiber, and Vitamin A. What’s more is that Edamame has Phytochemicals in it such as the Isoflavins that are great Antioxidants!
The Edamame bean has yet to be popular in the Western regions of the world. However, it is slowly making its way to the US. On the other hand, the Eastern countries like China, have already been cultivating this bean for ages. You can find Edamame either fresh or frozen, in the pod, or shelled in Oriental stores, natural-food stores, and now in some supermarkets. It can also be found at farmers’ markets during the summer as it is sold as whole plants.
Now if you like to learn how to cook edamame, the best way to do it is simply by boiling it. Remember, Japanese loves eating it right out of the pod? They enjoy eating Edamame as a finger food. So just by boiling it for a few minutes will be enough for you to try it out. Note however that only the beans inside the pod are edible. The pod itself should not be eaten! So make sure to tell your family and friends who will be trying out your Edamame. So if you want to know how to cook edamame, here are the few easy steps.
- Rinse your Edamame before using.
- Prepare your pot and fill it with water. Let it boil.
- Add salt.
- Now, add in a pound of fresh pods. If you purchased shelled beans, you can use that too.
- Let it cook for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Drain and spread on a baking sheet to cool for a few minutes.
- When cool, you are ready to eat!
- Using your thumb and forefinger, squeeze the cooked beans from its pod into your mouth and enjoy!