Spicy Garlic Edamame The Ultimate Appetizer Minimalist Baker

This edamame is the perfect protein-packed appetizer or side for stir-fries, noodles, and beyond! Just 8 ingredients and 30 minutes required. Let us show you how it’s done!

What is Edamame?

In Japan, edamame refers to the popular appetizer or side made by blanching young soybeans in their pods. The soybeans get removed from the pod with your teeth and the remaining pods are discarded. A similar dish is served in China and Taiwan, where it’s called maodou (source). The reason edamame is green (instead of beige like dried soybeans) is because edamame pods are picked before they fully ripen. Picking them early means they’re sweeter and have more of certain nutrients like folate and vitamin K. Edamame is also rich in protein and contains all the essential amino acids.

How to Make Spicy Garlic Edamame

This easy recipe begins with sautéing red pepper flakes, garlic, and ginger in coconut oil (or another oil) to infuse the oil with spicy, garlicky goodness. Then we add tamari and maple syrup for a sweet and savory match made in heaven. A mixture of arrowroot starch and water goes in next, and when heated, it turns the mixture into a thick and sticky sauce. Next, we add in boiled or steamed edamame pods and stir to coat them in the flavorful sauce. And optionally, stir in some toasted sesame oil for an extra pop of flavor. The result is tender, saucy pods ready to devour. When ready to eat the edamame, grip one end of the pod with your fingers and use your teeth to scoop out the beans. Once the beans are eaten, you’ll discard the leftover pods. We hope you LOVE this edamame! It’s:SweetSpicySavorySaucyPerfectly salty& Addictively delicious! We love serving it as an appetizer or side, especially paired with dishes with similar flavors, like General Tso’s Cauliflower or Crispy Miso Chickpea Bowls with Garlic Sesame Dressing. It’s also delicious alongside stir-fries, fried rice, or noodles!