Easy Garlic Edamame

Even though we all have super busy schedules, my good friends and I always manage to find time to get together to catch up. After all, it is important to take a step back from work and take time to unwind and relax. To make life easier for the hostess, we each will bring a dish to the little gathering. Since I love edamame, I decided to bring this easy appetizer for my pals. I flavored the Japanese favorite with garlic and soy sauce for added flavor and Japanese pepper for added kick. It is always a party favorite.

Materials:
1 pound frozen edamame
2 tablespoon finely minced garlic
1 1/2 tablespoon soy sauce
2 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon Japanese red pepper (can omit if want to avoid spicy food)
1 teaspoon sugar
ground black pepper to taste

Instruction:
1. Cook edamame in boiling water for about 5-6 minute, until tender and drained
2. Heat olive oil and sesame oil in a pan, add garlic and saute until lightly golden (do not over cook garlic, else will become bitter)
3. Add soy sauce, sugar to pan and cook for about 30 second, incorporate all ingredients together
4. Add drained edamame and toss until coated
5. Sprinkle red pepper and black pepper over edamame, toss ensure even coating

If you don't have sesame oil, just use olive oil instead. I like to serve this warm, but it is good cold as well. Garlic and pepper flakes really do add a savory kick to this popular Japanese appetizer. Cooking and taste are relative in my opinion, feel free to play around with ingredients to suit your own taste bud. Have a happy weekend. Do you order edamame when you eat out at a Japanese or Asian fusion restaurant?