Edamame (soybeans) are a quick and easy, protein-packed, tasty snack or appetizer. Pods may be boiled in water, steamed, or microwaved. The ends of the pod are sometimes cut before boiling or steaming. The most common preparations use salt for taste, either dissolved in the boiling water before introducing the soybean pods or added after cooking. Edamame is a popular side dish at Japanese restaurants.