Edamame is a tasty Japanese snack made from young soybeans. The beans are still in the pod and they have a soft texture similar to peas. When eating edamame, many people will pull the beans out of their shells so that they can enjoy them on their own or with other ingredients like salt and pepper or wasabi powder. If you love edamame, you’re probably wondering if you can eat edamame shells as well.
Can You Eat Edamame Shells?
Yes, you can eat edamame shells, but it’s a bit tough to chew. It does have some nutrition so you’ll benefit from eating the pods. To eat them, boil or steam until they are a bit soft and cut them into small pieces so it will be easier to eat.
Are There Any Risks To Eating Edamame Shells?
While edamame is a healthy food, there are some risks associated with eating the shell.
The main risk is that you could choke on the shells. The risk of choking on edamame shells is higher for children because their mouths are smaller than adults. Children should be supervised while eating edamame so that they don’t swallow the shells.
The other risk is that the inner part of the edamame pod might not be fully cooked. That could make anyone sick if they are allergic to raw soybeans or other proteins in their diet.
Benefits of Eating Edamame Shells
Many people enjoy eating edamame, but they don’t always know that there are benefits to eating the shell as well.
The benefits of eating edamame shells include:
Rich in fiber – The fiber content of edamame shells is fairly high at 6 grams per cup. This can help to lower cholesterol levels and improve digestive health.
High in protein – Edamame beans contain 10 grams of protein per cup, making them a great source of plant-based protein. This is especially important for vegans who may not get enough protein in their diets otherwise.
Boost energy levels – Edamame contains iron and magnesium which are both helpful for boosting energy levels when consumed regularly. Iron helps red blood cells carry oxygen throughout your body while magnesium assists with muscle contraction and relaxation.
What Does Edamame Shells Taste Like?
You can eat edamame shells, but there’s a catch: they’re pretty bitter. The crunchy shells also have a salty flavor that makes them perfect for snacking on by themselves or mixing with other food.
Edamame beans are actually soybeans that have been harvested while still in their pods and then blanched (boiled in water) to develop their taste, color, and texture. The edamame pods are eaten whole and offer up a delicious source of protein and fiber—which explains why so many people enjoy eating them out of the shell!
How To Clean Edamame Shells
If you’re planning to eat edamame pods, you’ll need to clean them thoroughly first. The process is simple and doesn’t require a lot of time.
The first thing you need to do is put the edamame into a colander.
Secondly, run it under cold water for about 20 seconds.
Third, remove the water from the colander.
Finally, pour fresh water into the colander. Let it sit for about 20 minutes so it will become a bit soft.
After about 20 minutes, you are ready to cook them.
How To Eat Edamame Shells
Edamame is a Japanese soybean that’s been steamed and eaten whole. The pods are actually green, but they’re packed with protein, iron, and fiber. They’re also delicious!
But after you’ve shelled the edamame, what do you do with the shells? Don’t throw them out! You can actually eat them too. Here are some of our favorite ways to use those leftover pods:
- Add them to homemade granola bars for extra crunch.
- Put them in salads for an extra dose of fiber and protein.
- Bake them into homemade bread for a crusty loaf with a crispy outside and soft inside.
- Include them in homemade hummus for added texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Yes, you can eat edamame shell! It’s a nutritious snack that contains fiber and protein. Plus, it tastes great when sprinkled on top of salads or soups. If you want to add some crunchy texture and flavor to your favorite dish, I recommend keeping some dried edamame shells at home for cooking purposes.
Kate has been in the food business for over 20 years. Worked as a cook at several buffets which include Old Country Buffet, Five Star Buffet, and Ichiban Buffet. Now, I’m mostly at home cooking for my family, caring for chickens and ducks, and tending the garden.
