Natto: A Millennium of History and Health Secrets Unveiled
Natto, the Japanese superfood is an exciting and nourishing ferment that's capturing the interest of health-conscious food enthusiasts worldwide. With a rich history and a treasure trove of health benefits, this unique delicacy has earned a coveted place on the table of those in pursuit of both gut health and well-being. Here at Light Cellar, we take immense pride in crafting this extraordinary food ourselves, adhering to the highest standards of quality and purity. Let's embark on a journey through the captivating history and health benefits of Natto.
Natto: A History of Tradition and Excellence
Natto, a quintessential Japanese superfood, boasts a rich history and a remarkable legacy of health benefits dating back centuries. Its origins can be traced to the Jomon period (14,000-300 BC) in Japan, making it one of the oldest known fermented foods. The process of making Natto involves fermenting soybeans with a beneficial strain of bacteria known as Bacillus subtilis var. natto. In the past, Natto was a simple, rustic dish consumed mainly in Japan, but its popularity has surged globally, thanks to its exceptional nutritional profile.
The Health Benefits of Natto
Natto is a nutritional powerhouse with a wide array of health benefits that make it stand out among superfoods.
1. Probiotic Richness: Natto is teeming with live probiotics, which promote gut health, aid digestion, and strengthen the immune system.
2. Cardiovascular Health: The unique enzyme Nattokinase, found in Natto, has been linked to improvements in heart health by supporting healthy blood circulation and potentially lowering the risk of blood clots. Looking for just Nattokinase? We carry it as well. Find it here.
3. Rich in Nutrients: Natto is a source of essential nutrients, including protein, vitamin K2, iron, calcium, and various vitamins and minerals, contributing to overall well-being.
4. Bone Health: The vitamin K2 content in Natto plays a crucial role in bone health by assisting in calcium absorption.
What does Natto taste like?
Natto offers a unique and acquired taste, with a flavor profile that can be both intriguing and polarizing. It boasts a distinct umami taste with hints of nuttiness and earthiness, which can be enriched with a slight nutty sweetness. The consistency is where Natto truly stands out, as it has a stringy, gooey texture that comes from its abundant production of natural enzymes during fermentation. This characteristic stickiness, often compared to melted cheese, adds a layer of complexity to the overall dining experience. While the flavor and consistency may take some getting used to, many enthusiasts appreciate Natto for its exceptional nutritional value and the delightful fusion of flavors and textures it offers.
10 ways to enjoy Natto:
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Classic Natto Rice Bowl: Serve Natto over a bowl of steamed rice, typically accompanied by soy sauce, mustard, and chopped scallions.
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Natto Sushi: Use Natto as a sushi filling or topping for a delicious twist on traditional sushi.
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Natto Toast: Spread Natto on whole-grain toast and add toppings like avocado, sliced cucumbers, or a fried egg.
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Natto Omelette: Incorporate Natto into your omelette mixture for a protein-packed and flavorful breakfast.
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Natto Soup: Add Natto to miso soup, ramen, or any soup of your choice for added umami and nutrition.
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Natto Tacos: Create a Natto taco filling with ingredients like shredded lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite seasonings.
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Natto with Kimchi: Mix Natto with kimchi for a spicy and probiotic-rich side dish.
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Natto Appetizers: Use Natto as a dip or spread for crackers, bread, or vegetable sticks.
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Natto Toppings: Use Natto as a topping for baked potatoes, roasted vegetables, or grain bowls.
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Natto Tasting Plate: Create a Natto tasting plate with various toppings and condiments for a diverse dining experience.
Remember that Natto's taste and texture are unique, and experimenting with different combinations can help you find the most enjoyable way to incorporate it into your diet.
Our Commitment to Excellence
At our establishment, we take great pride in crafting Natto of the highest quality. We produce fresh, never-frozen, live-culture Natto in-house, ensuring the highest standards of purity and freshness. We also exclusively use 100% Canadian certified organic soybeans, particularly heirloom soybeans, to create a product that is not only exceptionally nutritious but also locally supportive. Our pure culture fermentation process adheres to the time-honored traditions of Natto production, bringing you a genuine taste of this superfood.
Incorporate Natto into your diet and experience the profound connection between history, health, and taste. We invite you to indulge in our handcrafted Natto and unlock the incredible benefits of this extraordinary superfood. From supporting your immune system to promoting heart and bone health, Natto is a delicious and wholesome addition to your wellness journey. Enjoy the ancient wisdom and modern excellence that our Natto brings to your plate.
Where can I find Light Cellar Natto?
You can find our Natto in store or online! We ship anywhere in Canada and The United States. FInd our Natto link here.
If you're visiting us in store at (6531 Bowness RD NW, Calgary, Alberta T3B 4K2), we also make a vegan and gluten free Natto snack bowl!
Enjoy a Japanese inspired savoury snack packed with protein and probiotics!
Ingredients: House Made Natto, Seasonal Fermented Vegetables, Furikake (toasted sesame seeds and seaweed mix), Sushi rice and a Ginger Tare sauce.
Thank you for taking the time to read this article! We hope you enjoyed it! Let us know if you have any questions, we'd be happy to help!
