Stinky Foods and a Natto Fried Rice Recipe

My mom pointed out recently that I have developed an affinity to funky-smelling foods--stinky tofu, kimchi, and natto especially. I used to think these foods were unbearably smelly but now they smell delicious.

However, I think the true test to my apparent affinity would be limburger cheese. I distinctly remember discovering a love for cheese in high school and wanting to try all sorts of cheeses. I didn't get very far at the time since I turned my nose up at bleu cheese, which I now find acceptable. Nevertheless, at the time I ventured forward and purchased some limburger cheese. I could not handle it the moment I opened the package whilst the family dog sniffed even closer. Much to Benz's disappointment I disposed of the package immediately.

I was first introduced to natto by the Japanese TV show Iron Chef, during the good old days of campy dubbing. I was fascinated by the stickiness. What did it smell like? What did it taste like? Thinking on it now, I want to rewatch the episode for possible recipes.

Living in West LA, I have ready access to the nearby Japanese markets and, finally, two years ago I bought my first three unit packet of natto. Or was my first introduction to natto when my SO ordered it as part of a Santouka ramen combo? He didn't like it so I devoured it myself even after eating a full bowl of noodles. In any case, I haven't looked back since. You may have noticed an earlier post on my quick snack/meal of natto, kimchi, and quinoa.

Natto fried rice is the rendition I have been favoring lately. I found the recipe on a video uploaded to Youtube by ngswcook. Heat a pan on medium high heat. Open a package of natto and stir at least 15 times to create strands. Don't overstir or the strands will turn to foam. Set aside. Crack an egg into a bowl and beat to break the yolk. Add the natto to the bowl and mix. When the pan is heated, add oil and swirl around to heat. When the oil is sufficiently heated, pour in the egg mixture. Stir to create soft curds. When the eggs are still not set, add cooked white rice. Stir and toss until the eggs coat the rice grains. Remove from heat when the eggs are just set. Open the soy sauce packet that comes with each unit of natto and stir into the rice. Top with chopped green onions if you wish. Devour!