Classic Steamed Edamame with Sea Salt
Bright green, tender edamame pods steamed just until the beans inside are warm and pop out easily. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt clings to the fuzzy pods, making each one an irresistible, salty bite. This classic Japanese snack or appetizer takes only minutes and tastes like sunshine in a pod.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~3 min
Set up the steamer.
1.Pour 2 cups of water into a pot and bring to a rolling boil over high heat.2.Place the steamer basket on top, making sure the water does not touch the basket. - steam · ~5 min
Steam the edamame.
1.Add the edamame pods to the steamer basket in an even layer.2.Cover the pot with a lid and steam for 5 minutes until the pods turn bright green and the beans inside are tender.TIPIf using frozen edamame, steam for 1 minute longer. Don't overcook or the beans turn mushy. - mix · ~1 min
Season while hot.
Transfer the hot edamame to a serving bowl. Immediately sprinkle with flaky sea salt and toss gently to coat the pods evenly.
TIPThe heat and residual moisture help the salt cling to the pods. Season right away. - serve
Serve warm or at room temperature.
Pile the salted edamame into a serving bowl. Squeeze the beans from the pods straight into your mouth and discard the pods.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Do not thaw frozen edamame before steaming; cook straight from frozen for the best texture.
- 2Spread the pods in a single layer to ensure even steaming and avoid clumping.
- 3Taste-test a bean at 4 minutes; pods should yield easily and be tender but not mushy.
- 4Reserve the starchy steaming water to use as a light soup base or for cooking rice.
- 5If you don't have a steamer basket, boil the edamame in salted water for 3–5 minutes instead.
- 6For extra flavor, toss the hot edamame with a drizzle of sesame oil or a pinch of chili flakes.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy garlic
After steaming, toss the edamame with minced garlic, a pinch of red pepper flakes, and a splash of soy sauce for a bold, savory kick.
sesame saltSesame-salt
Replace plain sea salt with a mix of toasted white sesame seeds and coarse salt (gomasio) for a nutty, aromatic twist.
citrus zestCitrus zest
Add finely grated yuzu or lemon zest along with the salt to brighten the beans with a fresh citrus note.
chili limeChili-lime
Toss the steamed edamame with lime juice, chili powder, and a pinch of sea salt for a tangy, spicy finish.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Plant Protein
Edamame are whole soybeans, offering a complete protein source with all essential amino acids, ideal for plant-based diets.
Rich in Fiber
Each serving provides dietary fiber that supports healthy digestion and helps maintain steady energy levels.
Source of Folate
Edamame naturally contains folate, a B vitamin important for cell growth and red blood cell formation.
Low in Saturated Fat
This snack is naturally low in unhealthy fats and contains mostly heart-healthy polyunsaturated fats, including omega-3s.
Frequently asked questions
No, the pods are tough and fibrous. Squeeze the beans out with your teeth and discard the pod.
