Soy food products are rich sources of protein; they are low in saturated fats and are packed with vitamins, minerals, omega-3s and phytochemicals. The variety of soy food products on the market is increasing as vegetarians and vegans seek alternative sources for meat and other products.
Soy Food Products
Soy food products are made from soy beans. They are rich sources of soy. They include edamame, miso and whole soybeans, soy nuts and soy sauce.
Edamame are soybeans harvested while they are still green. They are sweet tasting, rich in proteins and fiber and may be enjoyed as a snack or as a vegetable.
Miso is a salty soy paste, popular in Japanese cooking as a sauce, a dressing or marinade and to make miso soup
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Whole soybeans are hard, dry and yellow, brown or black. They are rich sources of protein and fiber. Whole soy beans are excellent for making soups, stews and sauces.
Roasted soy nuts are made from whole soy beans. They are rich in protein and flavones (a group of substances found in plant foods that help to lower the risks of heart disease and cancer). Roasted soy nuts are similar to peanuts in their taste and crunch.
Soy sauce is fermented soybeans made into a dark brown liquid with a salty taste. It's a popular product in oriental cooking.
Soy Meat Alternatives
Some of these alternatives are, tempeh an ancient Indonesian food packed with protein, fiber, minerals and vitamins. It is a healthy fermented mixture of soybeans and grains. Tempeh has the appearance of meat loaf. It can be sliced, chopped or fried or made into juicy non-meat burgers.
Tofu or soybean curd is made from fresh, hot soy milk that is curdled with a coagulant. It is rich with proteins and Vitamin B complex. There are two main types of tofu--water-packed and silken. Water-packed tofu is solid and dense, holds its form well which makes it excellent for soups, stir fry or grilling. It is available as extra firm, firm and in soft varieties.
Silken tofu is softer and is best used for blended or puree dishes. It is available in extra firm, firm and soft and in a variety of fat free versions.
Textured Soy Protein (TSP)
TSP products are made from textured soy flower, textured soy protein concentrates and spun soy fiber. These products are rich in protein and fiber. TSP products are available dry; in granular and chunk style. TSP is used as a popular meat extender.
Soy Milk
Soy milk is a nutritious drink made by extracting the milk from pre-soaked soybeans. It is a healthy beverage rich in protein, B vitamins and phytonutrients. Phytonutrients lower the risks of heart disease and cancer. Soy milk has no cholesterol and no lactose.
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