Is There Such a Thing as Candied Natto? - Discovering Amanatto
When it comes to fermented and unconventional bean dishes, natto takes the cake with its distinct flavor and texture. However, there's a fascinating variation that combines the fermented earthiness of natto with a sweet twist - amanatto. Let's explore what amanatto is, how it's made, and where you can find it.
What is Amanatto?
Amanatto is a unique variation of the traditional natto bean dish that has emerged in Japan. The term "amanatto" literally translates to "sweet natto" or "sweet stored beans" in English. While regular natto is made with fermented soybeans, amanatto involves cooking the beans without fermentation and then coating them with sugar, resulting in a pleasant mix of bean and sweet flavors.
Ingredients and Preparation
Amanatto can be made from various types of beans, including adzuki beans, soybeans, and runner beans. The base ingredient is typically cooked and then coated with sugar before being preserved. Unlike regular natto, which involves a complex fermentation process that gives it its distinctive smell and texture, amanatto remains in its cooked form. The cooking process ensures that the beans are soft and fully cooked, while the sugar coating provides a sweet and sticky texture.
Flavor Profile
The flavor of amanatto is a delightful balance of earthy bean notes and a sweet, sugary taste. The beans provide a subtle earthiness that doesn't overpower the sweetness. The sugar coating gives the dish a sticky, chewy texture that can be quite enjoyable. It's the perfect contradiction to the strong, pungent taste of regular natto, making it a unique and appealing snack or ingredient.
Availability and Consumption
Due to its popularity in Japan, amanatto can be found in almost any convenience store and grocery store in the country. It's often showcased in displays that catch the eye of curious shoppers. A quick visit to a convenience store like 7-Eleven or Lawson will reveal rows of colorful and appealing amanatto packages. These can be found in varieties such as roasted, sweet, and even flavored with fruits or other seasonings.
Conclusion
Amanatto is a delightful variation of natto that offers a sweet and savory twist to traditional bean dishes. Its combination of softly cooked beans and a caramelized sugar coating makes it a unique and tasty treat. Whether you're looking for a snack, a topping for rice, or a component in a dish, amanatto is definitely worth exploring. So next time you find yourself in a Japanese convenience store, take a moment to try this intriguing and sweet take on natto.