Natto

Fermented soybeans may not sound so delicious, but in Japan it is a common food called natto. For those who have not seen or tried natto, it may be quite strange to say the least. Natto is brown with a strong scent and slimy texture, not to mention a unique stringiness. Its packaging is most commonly a white polystyrene container and comes with a small soy sauce and Japanese mustard packet. The two packets are emptied into the natto then you would mix the natto with the sauces to achieve a stringy web-like texture and look.

Most Japanese typically eat natto over rice. It is considered a very healthy meal, rich in amino acids. In addition to mixing the sauces into natto, some Japanese like to make goshoku natto. Instead of just soy beans, goshoku natto includes sashimi mixed in. This filling meal also uses sushi rice instead of regular rice for a flavor similar to chirashizuhi.

Natto may not be for everyone, but you can give this Japanese treat a try during your small-group tour vacation with Japan Deluxe Tours at select hotel breakfast buffets featured on our Cherry Blossom Japan Tours and Grand Tours Spring or year-round.