Green Soybeans and 10 Ways to Prepare Them

Green soybeans, often known as edamame, are a culinary delight that transcends the boundaries of snacking. These vibrant, nutrient-packed legumes have taken the food world by storm. They offer a versatile and delicious addition to your culinary cookbook. Rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, edamame brings both flavor and nutrition to the table.

In this article, we'll explore 10 creative ways to cook green soybeans. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook, green soybeans will bring excitement into your meals. These recipes will inspire your culinary journey with the goodness of green soybeans.

What You’ll Find:

Click on the links to jump to recipes

  1. What Are The Benefits of Green Soybeans?

  2. Classic Edamame Snack: Simply Delightful

  3. Edamame Hummus: Creamy and Protein-Packed

  4. Edamame Pasta: Healthy Pasta Alternative

  5. Edamame Guacamole: Alternative to a Classic

  6. Edamame and Kale Salad: Refreshing and Nutritious

  7. Edamame Stir-Fry: Quick and Easy Flavor

  8. Edamame and Turkey Chili: A Hearty Comfort Food

  9. Edamame Protein Rice Bowl: A Wholesome Protein Meal

  10. Edamame Pesto: Unique and Vibrant Pasta

  11. Edamame Smoothie: A Green Start To Your Morning

  12. Exploring Culinary Possibilities with Edamame

What Are The Green Soybeans Benefits?

Green soybeans, also known as edamame, are a culinary delight that goes beyond snacking. They are a great source of plant-based protein. 1 cup contains about 17 grams of protein. Packed with dietary fiber and essential nutrients, edamame promotes fullness and great overall health.

Let’s get into our first recipe!

Classic Edamame Snack

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup of fresh or frozen edamame in pods

  • 1 teaspoon of sea salt

Instructions:

  1. Bring a pot of water to a boil and add a pinch of salt.

  2. Add the edamame pods to the boiling water.

  3. Boil for 3-5 minutes or until tender.

  4. Drain and rinse the cooked edamame under cold water.

  5. Sprinkle it with sea salt and serve.

The classic edamame snack is a delicious and nutritious snack that anyone can enjoy anytime. These vibrant green pods burst with a naturally sweet and slightly nutty flavor. The sea salt enhances the taste. The process of popping edamame pods and savoring each bite is an experience in itself.

Edamame Hummus

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups of shelled edamame (cooked and cooled)

  • 2 cloves of garlic

  • 3 tablespoons of tahini

  • Juice of 1 lemon

  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a food processor, combine the cooked edamame, garlic, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

  2. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding a splash of water if needed for desired consistency.

  3. Taste and adjust the seasonings as per your preference.

Edamame hummus not only delights your taste buds but also offers a protein-packed punch. The combination of edamame, tahini, and zesty lemon creates a flavorful dip; pair it with pita bread or fresh vegetable sticks. Edamame hummus is a guilt-free indulgence that adds a nutritional boost to your snacking routine.

Edamame Pasta

Ingredients:

  • Edamame pasta (as per serving)

  • Your favorite pasta sauce

  • Fresh herbs and grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Cook the edamame pasta according to the package instructions.

  2. Drain the pasta and toss it with your preferred pasta sauce.

  3. Garnish with fresh herbs and grated Parmesan cheese.

  4. Cooking with Edamame Noodles

Edamame pasta offers a gluten-free and protein-rich alternative. This pasta satisfies your cravings while adding nutritional value to your meal. Its mild, slightly nutty flavor pairs well with various pasta sauces, making it a versatile choice for pasta lovers.

Edamame Guacamole

Ingredients:

  • 2 ripe avocados

  • 1 cup of shelled edamame (cooked and cooled)

  • 1/2 cup of diced tomatoes

  • 1/4 cup of finely chopped red onion

  • 2 tablespoons of fresh cilantro, chopped

  • Juice of 1 lime

  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mash the ripe avocados.

  2. Add the cooked edamame, diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and salt.

  3. Mix until well combined.

  4. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

Edamame guacamole adds vibrant color to your table. It also brings an extra dose of protein and nutrients to your favorite dip. This unique twist on a classic party favorite is a hit at gatherings and snack times alike.

A green, decorative bowl of edamame and kale salad.

Edamame and Kale Salad

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups chopped kale

  • 1 cup shelled edamame thawed

  • ½ cup slivered almonds or sliced

  • 1 large avocado chopped

  • 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds or hemp hearts

For the dressing:

  • ½ cup peanut butter

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce

  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

  • 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)

  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup

  • 1 ½ teaspoons toasted sesame oil (optional)

  • 1 teaspoon sriracha or to taste

  • 2 garlic cloves minced

  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger

Instructions:

  1. For the dressing: Mix the peanut butter, tamari, rice vinegar, lime juice, maple syrup, sriracha, garlic, ginger, and ¼ cup water in a medium bowl until smooth.

  2. Massage the kale: Place the kale in a large bowl. Add one-third of the dressing and massage the leaves until just tender.

  3. Combine all together: Add the edamame, almonds, avocado, and sunflower seeds. Add the desired amount of dressing and mix gently until fully incorporated.

This edamame and kale salad is not your ordinary salad; it's a powerhouse of flavors and nutrients. The combination of edamame, kale, creamy avocado, and crunchy almonds creates a melody of tastes and textures. The Asian-inspired dressing ties it all together for a refreshing and satisfying meal.

Edamame Stir-Fry

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup of cooked edamame (cooled)

  • A variety of colorful vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)

  • Tofu or chicken (optional)

  • Your favorite stir-fry sauce

Instructions:

  1. Heat a pan or wok over high heat and add a splash of oil.

  2. If using protein (like tofu or tempeh), cook it first until browned, then set it aside.

  3. Add the colorful vegetables and stir-fry until slightly softened.

  4. Toss in the cooked edamame and the protein, if using.

  5. Pour your favorite stir-fry sauce over the mixture and stir until everything is well-coated.

Edamame stir-fry, a flavorful and nutritious dish that is customized to suit your taste. The combination of vegetables, protein, and edamame coated in a delectable stir-fry sauce, creates a satisfying meal. You can prepare this well-balanced meal any weeknight in a matter of minutes.

Edamame and Turkey Chili

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 large yellow onion diced

  • 2 garlic cloves finely chopped

  • 2 pounds ground turkey breast 99% fat free

  • 3 cups water or chicken broth

  • 1 6-ounce can of tomato paste

  • 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes

  • 1 15-ounce can diced tomatoes

  • 3 cups edamame beans rinsed and peeled

  • 1/2 teaspoons salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper

  • 2 tablespoons chili powder

  • 2 tablespoons Paprika smoked

  • shredded cheese for garnish

  • light sour cream for garnish

  • chopped green onion for garnish

  • hot sauce for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Add olive oil, onion, and garlic to a large skillet and sauté 3 to 4 minutes until slightly tender. Add ground turkey and cook until done, crumbly, and brown. It should not be necessary to drain.

  2. Add the meat mixture to the crockpot. Add the remaining ingredients starting with the water. Stir until blended.

  3. Cover and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours, or 6 to 8 hours on low.

Edamame and turkey chili is a hearty and nutritious soup that the whole family will enjoy. The addition of edamame adds to this classic dish, offering a boost of protein and vibrant color. The perfect meal to cozy up with on a chilly evening.

A protein bowl with edamame, avocado, and stir-fry salmon.

Edamame Protein Rice Bowl

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb salmon portion cut into chunks

  • 1 cup rice

  • 3 tbsp rice vinegar

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • 1 tbsp honey

  • 1 tsp brown sugar

  • 2 tsp soy sauce

  • 1 tsp sesame oil

  • 1/2 tsp grated garlic

  • 1/2 tsp grated ginger

  • 1 tbsp sriracha optional (or any hot sauce you like)

  • 4 scallions

  • 2 tbsp sesame seeds

  • 5 oz edamame

  • 1 avocado sliced

Instructions:

  1. Cook Rice

  2. While the rice cooks, mix the rice vinegar, brown sugar, and salt in a small bowl. Stir well until the sugar and salt have dissolved in the vinegar. When the rice is cooked, pour the dressing over the fresh rice and stir until coated.

  3. Divide the cooked rice between two bowls so that two-thirds of each base is covered. Sprinkle rice with sesame seeds. In the remaining third, arrange edamame and sliced avocado.

  4. Make the teriyaki sauce: mix the honey, sesame oil, tamari (or soy sauce), garlic, ginger, and sriracha in a small bowl.

  5. In a skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon oil and add the diced salmon filets. Brown the salmon quickly on all sides, then pour the teriyaki sauce over.

  6. Turn the heat back up to high. Flip the salmon until it is fully coated with teriyaki sauce on both sides. Sprinkle the spring onions over the top. Continue to cook on high heat for a couple of minutes, flipping occasionally, until the salmon is glazed and cooked to your liking.

Remove from the pan and scoop the teriyaki salmon and spring onions onto the sushi bowls. Serve the teriyaki salmon bowl with extra tamari soy sauce on the side if you like. 

This teriyaki salmon rice bowl is a culinary favorite. It balances the delicate flavors of edamame, the richness of salmon, and the freshness of avocado and cucumbers. A wholesome meal that nourishes your body with essential nutrients. It makes your taste buds include in a melody of flavors.

Edamame Pesto

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup of cooked edamame (cooled)

  • Fresh basil leaves

  • Garlic cloves

  • Pine nuts

  • Parmesan cheese

  • Olive oil

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a food processor, combine the cooked edamame, fresh basil leaves, garlic cloves, pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil.

  2. Blend until a smooth pesto forms. Add more olive oil if needed for desired consistency.

  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Edamame pesto is a game-changer in the world of pasta sauces. Its vibrant green hue and rich flavor profile enhance any pasta dish. Whether tossed with your favorite noodles or spread on a turkey burger, edamame pesto adds a delightful twist to your culinary creations.

Edamame Smoothie

Ingredients:

  • Cooked edamame

  • Fresh spinach

  • Banana

  • Almond milk

  • Honey (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Blend cooked edamame, spinach, banana, almond milk, and honey (optional) in a blender.

  2. Blend until smooth and creamy.

  3. Adjust sweetness with more honey if needed.

An edamame smoothie is a fantastic way to kickstart your day with a burst of energy and nutrients. A refreshing and nutritious green smoothie that provides a protein boost to keep you fueled throughout the morning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Are green soybeans the same as edamame?

Yes, green soybeans and edamame are the same. Edamame is the Japanese term for young soybeans, typically harvested at their peak ripeness before they fully mature. People enjoy these green soybeans as a snack or incorporate them into various dishes.

Q2: Are green soybeans gluten-free?

Yes, green soybeans, or edamame, are naturally gluten-free. They make an excellent gluten-free alternative to wheat-based ingredients.

Q3: Is edamame a good source of protein?

Yes, edamame is an excellent source of plant-based protein. A 1-cup serving of cooked edamame contains approximately 17 grams of protein. Making them a valuable protein source for vegetarians and vegans.

Q4: Can I use frozen edamame for these recipes?

Yes, frozen edamame will substitute for these recipes. Simply follow the package instructions to cook the frozen edamame before incorporating them into your dishes.

Q5: Are green soybeans good for you?

Yes, green soybeans are good for you. Green soybeans contain protein, fiber, and nutrients, making them a healthy choice for snacking or adding to your meals.

Explore Culinary Possibilities with Edamame

Green soybeans, or edamame, are a nutritional powerhouse and a versatile ingredient that can transform your meals. Explore classic edamame snacks to innovative creations like edamame pesto. These recipes offer a delightful fusion of flavors and nutrition. Whether you're seeking a protein-packed dip or a refreshing salad, edamame has you covered.

Embrace the culinary possibilities of green soybeans. Discover new ways to enjoy their wholesome goodness in your daily meals.

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