The word edamame means “Beans on Branches,” since they grow in clusters on bushy branches. If you take a closer look at the pods, they’re quite fuzzy. To retain their fresh, natural flavor, they are typically parboiled and quick-frozen.

Soybeans are a major source of protein in Asia and are rapidly gaining in popularity in the US. I see them served in restaurants and have them offered me at dinner parties. Edamame are often consumed as a snack, used in side vegetable dishes or in soups. Children like them for their wonderful chewy texture and mild, somewhat sweet flavor. Another reason why they’re so popular with children is that they’re a fun finger food.

To prepare whole Edamame pods, simply cook the whole bean pods in salted water, drain, top with a sprinkle of coarse salt and then squeeze the beans directly from the pods into your mouth. If you’re buying them frozen, follow the package directions because many are sold already partially cooked and they simply need a quick reheating.

These days edamame are available pretty much everywhere, either in the pod or shelled and ready to use. If your children like them, incorporate them into their diets in as many ways possible. Edamame in any form are incredibly nutritious, loaded with protein, high in fiber, and relatively low in carbs. Below is a quick and flexible salad recipe that can be adapted as you wish.

Ingredients:
1/4 c. seasoned sushi rice vinegar
1 T. light vegetable oil
1/4 t. salt
1/8 t. freshly ground black pepper
1 pkg. (about 16 ounces) frozen, shelled edamame
1 Granny Smith apple, cut into 1/4 inch dice (Jicama or radish can be substituted)
1/2-1 c. lightly packed chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

To prepare:
Mix the oil, vinegar, and seasonings in a large bowl. Cook the edamame according to the package directions, then place in the bowl with the chopped apple and the cilantro and toss to coat the vegetables with the dressing.

8 Study Snacks That Make Kids Smarter

White vegetables and grains have the unfortunate reputation that they’re lacking in vitamins, minerals, and overall basic nutrition. Not true! Today’s blog subject is one of my favorite white vegetables: the noble cauliflower. Cauliflower is virtually fat free, low in calories and loaded with phytonutrients. Like its close relative broccoli, cauliflower is also a cruciferous vegetable, which means it contains strong cancer fighting nutrients.

One reason I like cauliflower so much is that it has a sweet, mild flavor and great texture. It’s great in stirfries, mashed, added to soups, or steamed and browned in olive oil. And, if you’re having a hard time getting your children to try vegetables, try mixing steamed cauliflower into cooked potatoes before mashing or make a dairy-free rich and creamy soup using puréed cauliflower topped with toasted almonds. I’ve found that heart healthy nuts added nutrient rich, mildly flavored cauliflower are a winning combination for most children.