This time I will introduce "Hama Natto(浜納豆) which is a special product from around Hamana lake(浜名湖) in Shizuoka pref. It is a kind ofNatto(fermented soybeans), but it is different from ordinary smelly stickyNattoin production. Ordinary Natto is made byNattobacteria, whileHamanattois fermented withKoji(麹、Aspergillus oryzae).
Misowhen you hearKoji? Yes!Miso(味噌)is also fermented soybean food made with Koji.
So the color and the taste ofHamanattois similar to those ofMiso. Misois paste and for seasoning, butHamanattokeeps the shape of soybeans and is eaten without being cooked. It goes well with warm rice. I tried this way and I liked it very much. And it is said thatHamanattois also great with beer. So I tried it but it is a little bit too salty for me.
I don't think you can get it at every supermarket. I recommend you to get it on the net if you are interested.
Reference: I hear there is a similar food in China. It is called "Douchi". It is a seasoning and they don't eat it likeHamanatto Douchi paste