Green Soybean (Edamame)

Edamame is young, green soybean usually still in the pod. They are soft and edible unlike the hard and dry mature soybeans which are used to make soy milk and tofu. You can buy them shelled and frozen.

In Japan, edamame are commonly enjoyed as a snack. The pods are boiled in salted water for approximately ten minutes and the beans are then squeezed directly from the pods into the mouth. Edamame can also be added to soups, stews, salads, rice dishes, stir fries and pureed into a dip. Edamame is both low in fat and a complete source of dietary protein.