Edamame are immature soybeans that are harvested before the beans fully mature and harden. They have a sweet, nutty flavor and are packed with protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals. Edamame are extremely versatile – they can be eaten as a snack, added to salads and rice bowls, or incorporated into various dishes. In this article, I will instruct you how to cook edamame beans perfectly every time.
1. How To Cook Edamame in Shell
1.1 How To Boil Edamame in Shell
Ingredients
- 1 pound frozen edamame in pods
- Water
- Salt (optional)
Instructions
Fill a pot with water and bring to a boil over high heat. Use about 4 cups of water for every 1 pound of edamame.
Add edamame pods and boil for 6-8 minutes until the beans are warmed through. Do not overcook.
Drain in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Then transfer edamame to a serving bowl. Sprinkle with salt to taste, if desired.
To enjoy, simply pop the beans out of their pods with your fingers or teeth.
1.2 How To Steam Edamame in Shell
Ingredients
- 1 pound frozen edamame in pods
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
Fill a pot with 1/4 cup water and bring to a boil over high heat.
Place edamame pods in a steamer basket or colander. Avoid overcrowding pods in the steamer basket. Steam in batches for even cooking.
Next, set basket in the pot over the boiling water then cover and steam for 8 – 10 minutes until heated through but still crisp.
Remove from heat and transfer edamame to a bowl. Sprinkle with salt if desired.
1.3 How to Microwave Edamame in Shell
Ingredients
- 1 pound frozen edamame in pods
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
Place edamame pods in a microwave-safe bowl and add 2 tablespoons water.
Cover the bowl loosely with plastic wrap, leaving a vent for steam to escape.
Microwave on high power for 4-5 minutes until heated through.
Drain any excess water and transfer edamame to a serving bowl.
2. How To Cook Edamame Without Shells
Ingredients
- 2 cups shelled edamame beans (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 shallot, minced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
If using frozen beans, thaw completely before cooking.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium high heat. Add shallot and garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add edamame beans, red pepper flakes, salt and pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until heated through.
Add a splash of water or broth if the pan becomes dry.
Serve edamame beans warm as a side dish or incorporate into rice bowls, salads, pasta dishes and more.
The simple, versatile edamame bean can be prepared using a variety of cooking methods. I hope that after reading this article, you know how to cook edamame bean perfectly, whether in their shells or without. With a touch of seasoning, edamame makes for a healthy, tasty snack or addition to any meal.
