Natto rice is a traditional Japanese dish that has gained popularity in recent years.
It is made by mixing cooked rice with natto, which is fermented soybeans.
Natto rice is known for its unique texture and flavour, as well as its health benefits.
In this article, we will discuss how to make natto rice at home.
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Why Make Natto Rice?
Natto rice is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Natto contains high amounts of protein, fibre, and vitamin K2.
Vitamin K2 plays an important role in bone health and can help prevent osteoporosis.
Additionally, natto is rich in probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that aid digestion and boost the immune system.
Benefits of Homemade Natto Rice
Making natto rice at home is also cost-effective compared to buying pre-made natto rice from stores or restaurants.
Plus, making it yourself allows you to customise the ingredients and adjust the taste to your liking.
⇒Homemade natto rice is not only healthier but also more affordable than store-bought options.
How to Make Natto Rice
To make natto rice, start by cooking the rice according to the package instructions.
Once the rice is cooked, add the natto and mix well.
Some people like to add additional ingredients such as soy sauce, green onions, or raw egg yolk.
⇒Customizing the ingredients in homemade natto rice allows for a unique and personalized flavour.
Ingredients Needed
To make natto rice, the following ingredients are needed:
- Cooked white rice (preferably short-grain)
- Natto (1-2 packs depending on serving size)
- Soy sauce or tamari sauce (optional)
- Scallions or green onions (optional)
- Pickled ginger (optional)
Cooking Instructions
To make natto rice, start by cooking the white rice according to the package instructions.
Once the rice is cooked, let it cool for a few minutes.
Then, add the natto to the rice and mix well.
If desired, add soy sauce or tamari sauce to taste.
Top with scallions or green onions and pickled ginger, if desired.
Health Benefits
⇒Natto is a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans. It is a good source of protein, fibre, and vitamin K2, which is important for bone health.
Natto is also rich in probiotics, which can help improve gut health and boost the immune system.
Additionally, it contains a compound called nattokinase, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-clotting properties.
Serving Suggestions
⇒Natto rice can be served as a main dish or as a side dish. It is often eaten for breakfast in Japan.
For a complete meal, serve natto rice with a side of vegetables or a salad.
It can also be topped with a fried egg or sliced avocado for added flavour and nutrition.
Step-by-step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make natto rice:
Cook the Rice
- Cook the rice according to package instructions
Prepare the Natto
- While the rice is cooking, prepare the natto
- Open the pack(s) of natto and stir until the beans become sticky and stringy
- Add soy sauce or tamari sauce to the natto and mix well.
- This step is optional, but it adds flavour to the dish.
Chop Scallions
- Chop scallions or green onions into small pieces and set aside
Mix the Rice and Natto
- Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a large mixing bowl
- Add the prepared natto to the bowl of rice and mix well until the rice is evenly coated with the sticky beans
- If desired, add chopped scallions or green onions to the mixture and stir again
⇒Scallions, also known as green onions, are a type of onion with long green stalks and small white bulbs. They have a mild, slightly sweet flavour and are often used in Asian cuisine.
⇒Pickled ginger is a common condiment in Japanese cuisine. It is made by soaking thin slices of ginger in vinegar and sugar, which gives it a sweet and tangy flavour.
Tips for Making Perfect Natto Rice
For those who love natto rice, here are some tips to ensure that it turns out perfectly:
Choosing the Right Rice
Short-grain white rice is the best option for making natto rice.
Other types of rice may not have the right texture to hold the sticky natto beans together.
Preparing the Natto
Before adding the natto to the rice, it should be thoroughly stirred.
This will help create the characteristic slimy texture that makes natto rice so unique.
Adjusting the Flavour
The amount of soy sauce or tamari sauce should be adjusted according to personal taste preferences.
Some people prefer their natto rice more savoury, while others like it less salty.
Adding Other Ingredients
For added flavour and nutrition, consider adding other ingredients such as diced avocado, sliced cucumber, or shredded nori seaweed to the natto rice.
Experimenting with Toppings
For variety, experiment with different toppings such as furikake seasoning, sesame seeds, or bonito flakes to add flavour and texture to the natto rice.
Short-grain white rice is the best option for making natto rice.
The amount of soy sauce or tamari sauce should be adjusted according to personal taste preferences.
The Health Benefits of Natto Rice
Natto rice is a nutritious and healthy dish that offers numerous health benefits.
Here are some of the key benefits of natto rice:
High in Protein
Natto contains high amounts of protein, making it an excellent food choice for vegetarians and vegans who may struggle to get enough protein from their diet.
Rich in Fibre
The sticky texture of natto is due to its high fibre content.
Fibre helps regulate digestion and can prevent constipation.
Packed with Vitamin K2
Vitamin K2 is essential for bone health and can help prevent osteoporosis.
Natto is one of the best dietary sources of vitamin K2.
Contains Probiotics
Natto is rich in beneficial bacteria that aid digestion and boost the immune system.
Eating natto regularly can improve gut health and overall well-being.
Natto is a great source of protein for vegetarians and vegans.
The high fibre content in natto can help regulate digestion.
Natto is one of the best dietary sources of vitamin K2, which is essential for bone health.
The probiotics in natto can improve gut health and overall well-being.
A Brief History of Natto Rice
Natto has been a popular food in Japan for centuries.
It is believed to have originated in the northeastern region of Tohoku during the Edo period (1603–1868).
At that time, natto was primarily consumed by samurai warriors as a source of protein.
Widely Available and Affordable
Over time, natto became more widely available and affordable, and it eventually became a staple food in many households throughout Japan.
Today, natto is enjoyed not only in Japan but also in other parts of Asia and around the world.
Preparation and Consumption
Natto is made by fermenting soybeans with a specific strain of bacteria called Bacillus subtilis.
The fermentation process gives natto its characteristic slimy texture and strong flavour.
It is often eaten with rice and other toppings, such as green onions and soy sauce.
Natto Rice Variations
While the traditional way to enjoy natto rice is simply by mixing cooked rice with natto, there are many variations on this classic dish.
Here are some ideas to inspire your next natto rice creation:
Natto Fried Rice
Fry up some leftover rice with vegetables and scrambled eggs, then add natto for a delicious and filling meal.
Leftover rice can be used to make a quick and easy meal.
Natto Sushi Rolls
Wrap natto and sliced avocado or cucumber in nori seaweed and sushi rice for a unique and flavorful sushi roll.
Nori seaweed is a great source of iodine.
Natto Bibimbap
Mix natto with cooked vegetables, rice, and spicy gochujang sauce for a Korean-inspired twist on natto rice.
Gochujang sauce is a staple in Korean cuisine and adds a spicy kick to any dish.
Bottom Line:
Natto rice is a delicious and healthy dish that is easy to make at home.
With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills, anyone can enjoy this traditional Japanese food.
Whether you prefer it hot or cold, plain or loaded with toppings, natto rice is sure to become a new favourite in your household.