Escape the summer heat with a refreshing and surprisingly satisfying bowl of Cold Natto Soba! This Japanese noodle dish combines the subtly sweet and nutty flavor of soba noodles with the unique, slightly slimy texture of fermented soybeans—natto. Don't let the unusual ingredient intimidate you; the creamy, savory natto perfectly complements the cool, refreshing broth, creating a surprisingly addictive culinary experience. The vibrant mix of textures and flavors makes this a perfect light meal or a unique appetizer.
Cold Natto Soba offers a delightful contrast between the smooth noodles and the slightly sticky natto, all balanced beautifully by a refreshing, often dashi-based, broth. Whether you're a seasoned natto lover or a curious newcomer, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Ready to dive into the world of this exciting noodle dish? Let's move on to the step-by-step instructions to create your own perfect bowl of Cold Natto Soba.
Tools Needed
Ingredients
- Dried soba noodles
- Natto (fermented soybeans): 1 packet per serving
- Nago yam (or other yam)
- Okra
- Green onions
- Egg yolk
- Mentsuyu (noodle soup base)
- Water
- Shichimi togarashi (seven spice blend)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Cook dried soba noodles according to package directions. Strain, rinse under cold water, and cool thoroughly. Then, strain well and set aside.
- Thinly slice green onions. Peel and grate the nago yam.
- Blanch okra and cut into halves (approximately 2 inches in length).
- Stir the natto with chopsticks to lighten its texture. You can eat it as is, but stirring makes it fluffier.
Step 2. Cook the Noodles and Make the Sauce
- Cook dried soba noodles according to package directions. Strain, rinse under cold water, and cool thoroughly. Then, strain well and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce by mixing water and mentsuyu (store-bought or homemade).
Step 3. Assemble the Dish
- On a serving dish, place the cooked soba noodles. Top with natto, grated yam, okra, green onions, and egg yolk.
Step 4. Serve and Enjoy
- Pour the mentsuyu sauce over the noodles and sprinkle with shichimi togarashi.
- Mix the toppings, noodles, and sauce together as you eat.
Read more: 15-Minute Japanese Curry Udon: Quick, Easy, & Delicious Weeknight Dinner
Tips
- Nago yam is commonly used in East Asia; check Asian markets for it.
- Natto has an acquired taste, but those who enjoy it will appreciate this dish's healthy and delicious nature.
Nutrition
- Calories: 500-600
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbs: 70-80g
- Protein: 20-25g
FAQs
1. What is natto?
Natto is fermented soybeans, a traditional Japanese food with a strong, unique flavor and a slightly slimy texture. It's a powerhouse of nutrients!
2. Is natto's slimy texture off-putting? I'm hesitant to try it.
Many people find they adapt to the texture quickly! The other flavors in the Cold Natto Soba often balance it well, and the slight stickiness adds a unique element to the dish.
3. Can I substitute the soba noodles with something else?
Yes! Other thin noodles like udon or even ramen can work, though the texture and flavor will be slightly different. Soba's buckwheat flavor complements natto best.
So there you have it—a refreshing and surprisingly delicious Cold Natto Soba recipe perfect for beating the summer heat. This dish is a testament to the unique and rewarding flavors of Japanese cuisine, proving that even the most unusual ingredients can create a culinary masterpiece. Enjoy your cool, savory, and slightly slimy summer bowl!