Roasted edamame pods are a great high-protein, low-calorie snack.
Edamame pods are green soybeans encased in a soft nut-like shell. Grown in East Asian countries, this vegetable is an excellent source of protein that is used in Japanese stir-fry dishes, as well as in soups, salads and in some processed sweets. Prepared in a variety of ways, roasted edamame pods -- with the right combination of seasonings -- can make for a flavorful and low-calorie snack or appetizer. Find fresh edamame pods in the produce section during the late summer months or year-round in the ethnic-foods freezer section of most grocery stores.
Instructions
1. Place racks in the lower position of the oven and preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Thaw the beans -- if they are frozen -- rinse them, and place them in a bowl large enough for mixing. For every 8- to 10-oz. package, add about 1 tsp. of olive oil and a 1/2 tsp. of kosher salt. You can use table salt as an alternative; however, kosher salt will provide a more subtle salt flavoring.
3. Stir the pods, salt and oil mixture well in order to evenly coat the beans.
4. Add additional seasonings as desired to the beans and mix well. Spices such as pepper, chili or garlic will add a zesty flavor.
5. Spread the beans in a single layer on a baking sheet or shallow pan. Insert the pan in the preheated oven. Allow the beans to roast for approximately 12 to 15 minutes.
6. Monitor the pods closely. After about six minutes, use a large spatula to turn the beans over onto the other side during roasting to prevent scorching.
7. Once roasted, remove the pods from the oven and allow them to cool before serving. Refrigerate any leftovers in a covered plastic container.
Tags: edamame pods, kosher salt, low-calorie snack