I’m American and in the last several years have grown an affinity for Japanese food. I’ve learned how to make onigiri, gyoza, hanami & mitarashi dango, and Japanese soufflé cheesecake & pancakes from scratch. And I love love love matcha.
But the one thing I haven’t been able to find in local Asian marts near me is NATTŌ. It’s been a dream of mine to try it for 2 years now and I finally found some at Mitsuwa. Honestly, I’ve heard the horror stories and I didn’t think I’d like it, but I DO. I’ve tried it in white rice with scallions and nori and on toast with butter and on toast with cheese. If anyone has any other suggestions, I’d love to hear it. I have to make another trip to buy more though 💔
Anyway, if you’re someone who’s been scared to try it, this is your sign to just DO IT. The smell is not pungent (smells mildly like coffee) and I don’t think it’s as slimy feeling as people make it out to be nor does the flavor taste too strong (I’d say savory but slightly bitter). But take my word with a grain of salt because I’ve only tried one brand — Shirakiku Natto Kotsubu Mini. 🙂
by meganopolis