Soy-protein meat substitutes are made from soybeans. Soybeans are one of the most nutritious foods with equal or better nutritional composition than meat. The versatility of the soybean makes it possible to be incorporated in several tasty dishes. Soybeans can be processed into tofu, soy hotdogs, soy scallops, soy burgers and other forms.
Nutritional Composition
Soy is high in B vitamins, iron, protein and isoflavonoids. Isoflavonoids can help to prevent certain types of cancers, help to relieve menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and help to maintain bone health. Soy is low in saturated fats and is a good source of fiber. Soybeans are unique because they contain all of the essential amino acids that make the protein complete. Soy can help to lower bad cholesterol and increase the flexibility of your blood vessels, thus lowering your risk for heart disease.
Tofu
Tofu is made from the curds of soybean milk. It is high in protein and has all of the other nutritional benefits of soy. Tofu can be seasoned to taste just about any way you like because of its naturally neutral taste. It is able to absorb any flavor surrounding it. Tofu is usually sold in squares and in textures of soft, firm and extra firm. Tofu can easily be substituted for meat in dishes such as stir-fries and casseroles.
Soy Burgers
With modern technology, soybeans can be processed in forms that resemble and taste like meat. Soybeans are processed into soy flour, soy concentrates and soy protein isolates that are incorporated into making a soy burger. Its health benefits can be superior to meat because a soy burger does not contain the same fat content as meat. An average soy burger weighing 70 grams contains 4 percent total fat with 0 percent trans fat. It contains 9 grams of carbohydrates and 13 grams of protein. As well, it contains 345 mg of sodium, 3 grams of fiber and 20 milligrams of calcium. It also contains 126 mg of potassium, 241 mg of phosphorus and 55 mcg of folate.
Commercial Soy Products
Soy meat-replacements are sold in cans or plastic containers as hot dogs, scallops, meatloaf, sausages and other forms. Frozen soy analogues are sold as burgers, sausages, meatballs, hot dogs and a variety of other forms. You can make sandwiches with refrigerated ham-like products and soy bologna-like products. Soy protein is available in freeze-dried form, which can be reconstituted with water. Soy jerky tastes like beef jerky. Soy fish-like products are also available in frozen form.
Member Comments