Find the etiquette rules on how to serve and eat edamame and tips to be the ideal host or the perfect guest and avoid any embarrassment.

What edamame etiquette is

Edamame etiquette is the set of rules to properly serve and eat edamame. Such rules help avoid behaviors that can disrespect your hosts or guests, or make you look unpolite.

If you are hosting, follow the etiquette to serve edamame to your guests appropriately.

As a guest, respect the etiquette rules to properly eat edamame at the dining table and avoid offending your hosts or embarrassing yourself.

What you should know about edamame

Edamame are immature soybeans that are harvested when they are still green and tender.

Edamame are small, bright green, and slightly fuzzy. They have a firm and slightly chewy texture and a nutty, slightly sweet flavor.

Etiquette rules to serve and eat edamame

1) How to store edamame

The ideal temperature to store edamame is in the refrigerator at around 40°F (4°C). To store edamame in the pantry, keep them in an airtight container and store them in a cool, dry place. To freeze edamame, blanch them first and then store them in airtight containers in the freezer. Edamame can last up to a week in the refrigerator, up to 6 months in the freezer, and a few days in the pantry.

Sliced or cooked edamame should be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.

2) How to clean edamame

To clean edamame, simply rinse them under cold water. There are no significant risks associated with cleaning edamame.

You can tell when edamame has turned bad by the appearance of mold, an off smell, or a slimy texture.

3) How to prepare & cook edamame

Edamame can be eaten raw or cooked. The most common ways to cook edamame are boiling or steaming them.

The most popular dishes or types of dish with edamame are salads, stir-fries, soups, and sushi.

You can also use edamame in salads and sandwiches. While they are not commonly used in juice, smoothies, jam, or preserves, it is possible to use them in those preparations.

4) How to serve & present edamame

Edamame can be appropriate for both formal and informal meals, as well as breakfast, brunch, or snack time. They are often served as an appetizer or side dish but can also be used as a main course or dessert.

The most polite way to serve edamame to your guests is in a small bowl or plate. The ideal serving temperature is warm or at room temperature. You can use chopsticks or your fingers to eat edamame, and it is acceptable to discard the pods after removing the beans.

Edamame can be accompanied by a variety of seasonings and accompaniments such as salt, soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili flakes.

5) Food and wine to pair edamame with

Edamame pairs well with a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, cucumbers, and carrots. They also pair well with fruits such as oranges and mangoes. Avoid pairing edamame with bitter or acidic vegetables such as tomatoes or grapefruit.

Edamame goes well with some cheeses such as feta, goat cheese, and parmesan. It also pairs well with dairy such as Greek yogurt. Avoid pairing edamame with creamy or heavy cheeses like brie or blue cheese.

Edamame can be paired with chicken, pork, or shrimp. It also pairs well with fish such as salmon or tuna. Avoid pairing edamame with heavy meats like beef or lamb.

Edamame pairs well with white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. It also pairs well with light red wines like Pinot Noir. Avoid pairing edamame with heavy or tannic red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon. It can also be paired with Rosé wine, sparkling wine, beer, or sake.

6) How to eat edamame

To eat edamame, use your fingers to pop the beans out of the pods. It is polite to discard the pods after removing the beans.

Edamame etiquette: the worst mistakes

Avoid the most common edamame etiquette mistakes:

• 8/10. Double-dipping.
• 8/10. Using your teeth to remove the beans from the pods.
• 6/10. Leaving empty pods on your plate. It is best to dispose of them in a separate dish provided for this purpose.

Additional information for properly serving edamame

How many calories per serving?

Counting calories is important to stay healthy and correctly planning a menu.

Edamame contains around 120-130 calories per serving (one cup) and approximately 121 calories per 100 grams. A single edamame bean contains around 4 calories.

How to buy the best edamame

A crucial factor in edamame etiquette is serving your guests the best product possible.

Season and availability 

Edamame is available all year round, but the best season to buy fresh edamame is in the summer months, particularly from June to September.

Choose the best

The most common ways to find edamame in commerce are fresh or frozen in the pod, shelled fresh or frozen, canned, and dried.

The most popular varieties of edamame in commerce include Midori Giant, Sayamusume, and Butterbean. Midori Giant is considered the most prized variety due to its sweet flavor and large size.

When buying fresh edamame in the pod, look for bright green pods that feel plump and firm to the touch. The pods should not have any blemishes or discoloration, and they should have a fresh, grassy aroma. When buying shelled edamame, look for beans that are uniformly green, plump, and firm.

Alternatives to edamame

Some common alternatives to edamame include lima beans, fava beans, green peas, and soybeans. These can be used in similar dishes as edamame and provide similar nutritional benefits.

Resources

• Is edamame good for you? Nutrition, calories, recipes, benefits, and all you need to know: medicalnewstoday.com