Natto! The Soybean Wonder.

Soy beans are used many ways in Japan.

One of the more popular ways is to ferment the bean and serve it over rice and is called natto.

While you might find frozen varieties in your local Asian supermarket, truly good natto is served fresh. Give it a shot!

Yummy! Courtesy of Wikipedia

As the fermentation process occurs, a distinct and pungent aroma develops in the beans. While some shy away from the smell, some Japanese are in food-heaven. More commonly eaten in the morning, you can also find Japanese eating natto during lunch and dinner with a variety of foods, such as with Korean cabbage (kimchi) and even on pizza!

Some of its beneficial effects are prevention of heart attacks, strokes, cancer, osteoporosis, obesity and intestinal disease.