SAVOR JAPAN -Japanese Restaurant Guide-

"Edamame" was added to the Oxford English Dictionary in 2003 as another famous Japanese word alongside "ramen" and "sushi". Eaten in Japan and China since ancient times, edamame are available throughout the year, but taste best during the summer. They are commonly boiled in salt water and perfect for pairing with beer or sake. Not only are they delicious, but their high levels of protein help slow the intake of alcohol. Edamame and soybeans are actually the same beans, harvested as edamame when young and soy beans when older. Many Japanese foods and flavorings, such as tofu, natto and soy sauce, are made from soybeans.