straw-wrapped natto
A traditional type of natto wrapped in a straw bundle (苞). Often contrasted with わら納豆 (wara nattō), which is wrapped in straw as well but may refer to a slightly different preparation or regional name.
See also: 藁納豆 (わらなっとう)
Tsuto natto is natto made using a traditional method.
In this region, straw-wrapped natto is sold as a local specialty.
Standard kanji spelling for this traditional food item.
Mixed kana-kanji spelling; the first part is often written in kana because the kanji 苞 is uncommon.
Compound of 苞 (tsuto, 'straw bundle') + 納豆 (nattō, 'fermented soybeans'). The exact historical origin is uncertain, but it refers to a traditional preservation and fermentation method using straw wrappers.