Natto in LA: A Sticky Situation
So, you want to embark on the slimy, sticky, yet surprisingly delicious journey of natto? Welcome to the club! But where on earth can you find this fermented soybean goldmine in the concrete jungle of Los Angeles? Let's dive in.
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| Where To Buy Natto In Los Angeles |
Your Local Natto Nook
Believe it or not, LA has a decent selection of places to get your natto fix. Here are a few hotspots:
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- Japanese Grocery Stores: These are your go-to for natto. Think Nijiya Market, Marukai Market, and Mitsuwa Marketplace. They're like the Willy Wonkas of natto, with a whole world of sticky goodness waiting inside.
- Little Tokyo: This vibrant neighborhood is a treasure trove for Asian food lovers. You'll find plenty of Japanese markets and specialty stores that carry natto.
- Online Shopping: If you're too lazy to leave your couch (we don't blame you), you can always order natto online. Just be prepared for a bit of a wait and some potential shipping fees.
What to Expect (and How to Survive)
Natto is an acquired taste. It's slimy, stringy, and has a distinct aroma that some people compare to... well, let's just say it's unique. But don't let that scare you off! With the right condiments (soy sauce, mustard, green onions), natto can be a surprisingly addictive treat.
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Pro tip: Start with a small amount and gradually increase your intake. Your taste buds will thank you.
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Natto and Rice: A Match Made in Heaven
One of the most classic ways to enjoy natto is with rice. The sticky texture of the natto complements the fluffy rice perfectly. For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of seaweed flakes or sesame seeds.
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Warning: Eating natto with chopsticks can be a challenging (and potentially messy) experience. You've been warned.
How to Prepare Natto
Natto is usually sold pre-packaged and ready to eat. However, there are a few things you can do to enhance the flavor:
- Let it warm up: Natto is often served slightly warmed up, which can help to reduce the stickiness.
- Add toppings: As mentioned earlier, soy sauce, mustard, and green onions are classic toppings. You can also experiment with other ingredients like nori, grated daikon radish, or shichimi togarashi.
- Mix it well: Use chopsticks to break up the natto strands and create a smooth, creamy texture.
FAQ: Natto 101
- How to store natto: Natto should be stored in the refrigerator.
- How to cook natto: Natto is typically eaten raw, but some people like to add it to cooked dishes like soups or stir-fries.
- How to eat natto without chopsticks: You can use a spoon or fork, but be prepared for a messy experience.
- How to overcome the smell of natto: The smell of natto can be strong, but it doesn't necessarily translate to the taste. Try adding plenty of toppings to mask the odor.
- How to introduce natto to picky eaters: Start with a small amount and mix it with other foods they enjoy, like rice or miso soup.
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