Soy
What is Soy?
Packed with nutrition, the soybean is full of protein and is a source rich in iron, calcium, zinc, vitamin B, and omega-3 fatty acids. It is low in fat and cholesterol-free.
No other bean offers as many health benefits. Soybeans are the only beans with all nine essential amino acids providing a source of complete protein. Soybeans are equivalent to animal foods in protein content and in many cultures are used as a protein source instead of meat.
You don't need to look far to find the many health-related benefits of soy. Studies show that soy can help keep the heart healthy, maintain bone strength, fight cancer, and ease menopausal symptoms.
Soy has received attention for its healthy attributes; and recently was recognized by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) report stating that 25 grams of soy protein included in a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease by lowering the blood cholesterol levels.
Soy Products and Forms
No longer only found in tofu and soy milk, soy is receiving high praise for its many positive attributes and is being used as an ingredient in a wide variety of foods and products. Many American dietary favorites including burgers, hot dogs, cheese, and ice cream are now being made with soy.
Tofu - soybeans that are first washed, soaked, ground, and boiled into soymilk. The milk is then strained and curdled. The curds are separated from the watery whey and pressed into blocks.
Soy milk - the liquid from soybeans after they have been soaked and pureed. Available in different flavors.
Miso - fermented soybean paste from cooked soybeans, salt, water, and koji grain that is aged for five years. Miso is available in a variety of flavors.
Tempeh - soybeans that are cultured and fermented and pressed into cakes. Tempeh has a firm, meat-like texture with a deep mushroom-like flavor.
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