ebii

Ebi or Ebi is a Japanese dish made from boiled edamame, or immature soybeans, that have been seasoned and sweetened. The dish is commonly served in Japanese restaurants and is typically considered a side dish or appetizer.

Edamame, the primary ingredient in ebi, are young soybeans that are harvested when they are still green and have a soft, gelatinous pod. When boiled, the edamame explode into two segments, releasing a soft, creamy bean from the pod. Seasoning and sweetening are then added to create the ebi flavor.

Ebi is often associated with Japanese cuisine, particularly in sushi restaurants. However, the dish has origins in Japanese summer cuisine, where seasonal edamame were enjoyed during the warmest months. In modern times, ebi has become a staple in many Japanese restaurants around the world, offering a unique taste experience to their patrons.

While the name "ebi" is sometimes used to refer to real crab or other shellfish in a fried version, the context and ingredients are typically distinct from the boiled soybean dish. In this article, "ebi" refers specifically to the boiled edamame dish.

Some variations of ebi may include additional ingredients, such as sea salt, garlic, or sugar, while others may be heaped with sauces and toppings. Regardless of variations, however, ebi remains a universally recognized symbol of Japanese cuisine that has worldwide appeal.