This recipe for Steamed Edamame with Sea Salt is a perfect healthy bedtime snack, offering a satisfying crunch and savory flavor. It’s incredibly simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice when you need a quick, nutritious treat before bed. You’ll love how easy it is to add this wholesome option to your evening routine.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Frozen Edamame Pods: Look for them in the freezer aisle. You can use shelled edamame if you prefer, but pods are more fun!
- Sea Salt: Essential for flavor. Flaky sea salt adds a nice texture.
- Water: For steaming.
Ingredients
- 1 bag (12-16 oz) frozen edamame pods
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 cup water
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 8 minutes
- Prep Time: 1 minute
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Tools Needed: Medium pot with lid, colander (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Pot
Place the 1/4 cup of water into a medium pot. You are creating a steaming environment for your edamame, so a lid is crucial.
2. Add the Edamame
Pour the frozen edamame pods directly into the pot with the water. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand.
3. Steam the Edamame
Cover the pot with a lid and bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the edamame steam for 5-7 minutes. The pods should be tender-crisp.
4. Drain and Season
Carefully remove the pot from the heat. You can drain any excess water using a colander, or simply tip the pot to pour it out. Immediately transfer the hot edamame to a serving bowl and sprinkle generously with sea salt.
5. Serve Warm
Toss the edamame gently to ensure the salt is evenly distributed. Enjoy your warm, savory, and healthy bedtime snack right away!
Variation Ideas
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes after steaming.
- Garlic Lover: Toss with a tiny bit of garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Citrus Brightness: Squeeze a bit of fresh lemon or lime juice over the edamame after salting.
Storage Instructions
If you have any leftover steamed edamame, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can quickly steam it again for a minute or two, or microwave it until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can you steam edamame in the microwave?
A: Yes, you can. Place the edamame and a tablespoon or two of water in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
Q: Is edamame a healthy bedtime snack?
A: Absolutely! Edamame is packed with protein and fiber, helping you feel full and satisfied without being too heavy before bed.
Q: Do you eat the edamame shell?
A: No, you do not eat the edamame shell. You typically pop the beans out of the pod and discard the shell.
Q: Can you use fresh edamame instead of frozen?
A: Yes, you can use fresh edamame. You may need to steam it for a minute or two longer until tender.
Q: What kind of sea salt is best for this recipe?
A: Any sea salt works well, but flaky sea salt or coarse sea salt provides a pleasant texture and burst of flavor.
Q: Can you add other seasonings to edamame?
A: Of course! Feel free to experiment with seasonings like sesame seeds, a dash of soy sauce, or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
