Green Beans with Ama-Koji Sesame Sauce | Sweet, Nutty & Gut-Friendly Japanese Side Dish
- Hitomi
- Oct 30
- 2 min read
This easy, 10-minute recipe combines the gentle sweetness of Ama-Koji and the nutty aroma of sesame for a perfectly balanced side dish that’s full of probiotics and natural enzymes!

CONTENTS
ABOUT THIS RECIPE |
This “Goma-ae” style side dish uses Ama-Koji instead of sugar and Soy Sauce Koji instead of soy sauce for a healthier, enzyme-rich sweetness. It’s vegan, dairy-free, refined-sugar free, and loaded with prebiotics that your gut will love.
RECIPE OVERVIEW |
Prep Time: 5 min
Cook Time: 5 min
Total Time: 10 min
Servings: 2
Cuisine: Japanese
Equipment Needed: Steamer, mortar & pestle, bowl
Difficulty: Easy
Suitable For: Vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, refined-sugar-free
NUTRITION & GUT HEALTH BENEFITS |
Ama-Koji: Natural enzymes help digestion & promote a balanced microbiome.
Soy Sauce Koji: Adds probiotics that aid nutrient absorption.
Sesame Seeds: Rich in fiber, calcium, and magnesium — supports healthy digestion & metabolism.
Green Beans: Provide prebiotic fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins A & C.
INGREDIENTS |
180g green beans
2 tbsp toasted white sesame seeds
2 tbsp soy sauce koji
3 tbsp ama-koji
1 tbsp sesame oil
INSTRUCTIONS |
Steam green beans for 4–5 minutes until tender but crisp.
Grind toasted sesame seeds until finely crushed.
In a bowl, mix ground sesame, ama-koji, soy sauce koji, and sesame oil.
Add the steamed green beans and toss to coat evenly.
RECIPE NOTES |
Don’t boil the green beans — steaming keeps their nutrients and bright color.
For extra flavor, sprinkle a bit of yuzu zest or chili flakes before serving.
FINAL THOUGHTS |
This Ama-Koji Sesame Green Bean dish is a quick and delicious way to incorporate fermented foods into your everyday meals. Sweet, savory, and gut-friendly — your body will thank you! 💚












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