Introduction
Spicy edamame is a delightful dish that combines the fresh taste of edamame with a flavorful and zesty garlic sauce. This simple yet satisfying recipe is perfect as an appetizer or a snack and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up this delicious treat that will impress family and friends alike.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Edamame:
– 300g/10oz frozen edamame in pods (preferably not brined)
– 2 teaspoons cooking salt/kosher salt
Spicy Garlic Sauce:
– 1 tablespoon grapeseed oil (or other neutral-flavored oil)
– 2 teaspoons garlic, finely minced
– 1 tablespoon sambal oelek (adjust to taste)
– 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon Japanese soy sauce (substitute with light or all-purpose soy sauce; avoid dark soy)
– 1 tablespoon mirin
– 1/4 teaspoon miso paste (any type; optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon cooking salt/kosher salt
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 2-4 as an appetizer or snack
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Spicy Garlic Sauce:
Heat the grapeseed oil in a small pan over medium-low heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté until it turns light golden.
Incorporate the sambal oelek, toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, mirin, miso paste (if using), and salt.
Stir the mixture and let it simmer on low heat for 1 minute.
Remove the pan from the stove and set aside.
Cook the Edamame:
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the 2 teaspoons of salt.
Add the frozen edamame pods to the boiling water.
Once the water returns to a boil, cook the edamame for 2 minutes.
Drain the edamame thoroughly, shaking off any excess water.
Combine and Serve:
Transfer the drained edamame to a mixing bowl.
Pour the prepared spicy garlic sauce over the edamame.
Toss well to ensure the edamame is evenly coated with the sauce.
Transfer the coated edamame to a serving bowl, making sure to scrape out every drop of the sauce.
Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
How to Eat Spicy Edamame:
Pick up a sauce-coated edamame pod.
Use your front teeth to bite or suck the soybeans out of the pod while simultaneously savoring the sauce from the pod’s exterior.
Discard the empty pod.
Repeat the process and enjoy!

Cook techniques
Preparing the Spicy Garlic Sauce
Heat grapeseed oil in a small pan over medium-low heat. Sauté minced garlic until light golden. Add sambal oelek, toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, mirin, miso paste (if using), and salt. Stir and let simmer for 1 minute.
Cooking the Edamame
Bring a large pot of water to boil and add cooking salt. Add frozen edamame pods to the boiling water. Cook for 2 minutes once the water returns to a boil. Drain thoroughly, shaking off excess water.
Combining and Serving
Transfer drained edamame to a mixing bowl and pour spicy garlic sauce over. Toss well to coat and transfer to a serving bowl. Scrape out every drop of sauce and serve warm or at room temperature.
FAQ
Can I use fresh edamame instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh edamame can be used, but cooking times may vary slightly.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the sauce?
You can adjust the amount of sambal oelek to suit your desired level of spiciness.
What can I substitute for mirin?
You can use a mixture of sugar and rice vinegar as a substitute for mirin.
Is miso paste necessary for the sauce?
Miso paste is optional; it adds depth of flavor, but you can omit it if desired.
How do I eat edamame pods properly?
Squeeze the pod to release the soybeans, using your teeth to bite or suck them out while enjoying the sauce. Discard the empty pod after eating.
Conclusion
This spicy edamame dish serves as a flavorful and nutritious appetizer or snack that can be easily prepared at home. The combination of the vibrant spicy garlic sauce and the tender edamame pods creates a delightful experience for the palate. It’s a perfect option for gatherings, as well as for enjoying a healthy treat on your own.
Edamame with Soy Garlic Dressing
For a simpler flavor profile, toss cooked edamame with a soy dressing made from soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of lemon. This offers a lighter alternative to the spicy sauce.
Spicy Edamame Hummus
Blend cooked edamame with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil for a unique hummus variation. Serve with pita chips or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Edamame and Quinoa Salad
Combine cooked edamame with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing salad packed with protein.
Roasted Edamame with Sea Salt
Toss shelled edamame with olive oil and sea salt, then roast in the oven until crispy for a crunchy snack alternative.
Edamame Stir-Fry
Add cooked edamame to a stir-fry with your choice of vegetables, tofu, and a savory sauce for a complete meal.
Spicy Edamame Spring Rolls
Wrap cooked edamame and fresh vegetables in rice paper for a healthy spring roll. Serve with a spicy dipping sauce for extra flavor.
