Instant Pot Natto

Natto is a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans. It has a distinctive earthy flavor, a pungent aroma, and a slimy yet creamy texture. This description is likely off-putting to many but it has not stopped natto from becoming a staple food in Japan. People often consume natto as a breakfast food, recognizing its health benefits due to its richness in protein, vitamins, and probiotics. It is even considered the secret recipe for the longevity of the Japanese people! The fermentation process involved in making natto gives it its unique taste and texture. Natto is not for everyone, but if you are open to trying new things or are already a natto fan, this instant pot natto recipe is for you!

History of Natto

Natto has a long and rich history in Japanese cuisine, dating back over a thousand years. The origins of natto are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in the Jomon period (14,000–300 BCE) in Japan. Some theories suggest that the practice of fermenting soybeans to make natto may have been influenced by Chinese fermented soybean products.

Benefits of Eating Natto

• Probiotics: Being a fermented food, natto contains beneficial bacteria (probiotics) that can contribute to a healthy gut microbiota. Moreover, a balanced gut microbiota contributes to various health benefits, including enhancing digestion and boosting immune function.
• Protein: Furthermore, natto is a good source of plant-based protein, and its protein content makes it a valuable addition to a vegetarian or vegan diet. Notably, a 1/2 cup serving of Natto contains a whooping 17 grams of protein! 
• Vitamin K2: Natto is particularly rich in vitamin K2, which plays a crucial role in bone health by assisting in the regulation of calcium in the bones and blood vessels. Adequate vitamin K intake is important for maintaining strong and healthy bones.
• Cardiovascular Health: In addition, some studies propose that consuming natto might positively influence cardiovascular health. Nattokinase, an enzyme produced during the fermentation process, is believed to potentially benefit cardiovascular health by supporting blood circulation and preventing the formation of blood clots.

Shopping List:

To make instant pot natto you will only need two ingredients!

• Natto starter or pre-made natto: Order your natto starter online from Amazon or Etsy, ensuring a convenient and reliable source. Alternatively, opt for frozen natto available at local Asian markets, providing an easy way to inoculate your soybeans.
• Dried Soybeans: For your soybean needs, explore the selection of laura soybeans on popular online platforms such as Amazon and Walmart. If you’re aiming for an authentic touch, Japanese natto soybeans are readily accessible through Laura Soybeans’ online store.

Natto Pairings

To enhance the rather bland nature of natto, consider incorporating the following ingredients. They can beautifully complement the mellow, earthy flavors of natto, elevating the overall taste experience.

• White Rice
• Soy Sauce
• Sesame Oil
• Miso
• Karashi (Japanese mustard)
• Avocado
• Ginger
• Kimchi
• Scallions
• Shredded Nori
• Soft Tofu

Share Your Instant Pot Natto Adventure

If you’ve ventured into the world of natto or are already a devoted fan, we’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts on the unique flavor, the intriguing aroma, or even your creative ways of incorporating natto into your meals. Your reviews help others discover the diverse world of Japanese cuisine! You can inspire fellow food enthusiasts to embrace the distinctive qualities of natto.

Instant Pot Natto

Recipe by Dakota OvdanCourse: Breakfast, SidesCuisine: JapaneseDifficulty: Easy

Servings

8

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Total time

2

minutes

Natto is a traditional Japanese dish made from fermented soybeans, known for its intense aroma and sticky texture. It is often consumed as a breakfast food and is prized for its unique flavor and potential health benefits.

Ingredients

• 1 cup soybeans

• 1/2 tsp natto starter or 1 tbsp of natto 

Directions

• Soak soybeans in a large bowl of water for 20-24 hours. Beans are done when doubled to tripled in size and bubbles are on top of water. 
• Sterilize all containers and utensils that will be used. Use a dishwasher on the sanitized setting or soak them in diluted bleach water (2 tbsp of bleach per gallon of water) for 10 minutes. Rinse and dry.
• Cook soybeans till tender. Place beans in the instant pot and cover with three inches of water. Cook on high pressure for 22 minutes for Japanese soybeans or 48 minutes for Laura soybeans, and naturally release the pressure for 20 minutes before opening the steam valve. 
• Prepare natto starter slurry by mixing 1/2 tsp of powdered starter with one teaspoon of water or scoop out one tablespoon of thawed store-bought natto.
• Drain beans making sure all excess water has been removed. Once the beans have cooled down to 99-106 degrees (Jacuzzi temp or slightly hotter) mix in the slurry or store-bought natto. 
• Transfer beans to a medium-sized glass bowl (small enough to fit into the instant pot)
• Place one cup of water in the bottom of the instant pot then place a steam rack on the bottom. Place the bowl of beans on top of the steamer uncovered, making sure the beans do not have direct contact with the water. Place the instant pot lid on and keep the steam release valve to open. Set the instant pot to the regular yogurt setting for 24 hours. 
• Properly fermented beans will have white halos where the beans touch the glass and gooey strands when scooped. It can be eaten immediately or fermented in the fridge for an additional day which will mellow out the flavors. Whip with chopsticks or utensils till frothy before eating. Option to serve with white rice, scallions, soy sauce, sesame oil, and shredded nori or whatever else you like!