Undoubtedly, milk nutrition is very important. It is one of the four major food groups. However, dairy foods certainly are not the only foods that provide bone-strength and good health. Non-dairy alternatives like tofu also serve the purpose.

Tofu or bean curd is a food derived from soybeans. It is made by curdling soya milk with a coagulant and pressing the curds into soft white blocks.

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Tofu is made from soybeans. It is the rich source of plant protein. If you are eliminating milk from your diet, thankfully you don’t have to eliminate your favorite meals often having dairy products as a staple ingredient. Tofu, the helpful substitution will aid you in creating dairy-free versions of classic recipes as well as exciting dishes that contain milk and milk products. If you love to eat cheese but confront the problem with Lactose Intolerance, then also you can replace cheese with tofu.

Tofu contains high amounts of protein as compared to milk products. Not only protein, tofu is an excellent source of calcium and iron. It is lower in cholesterol. Its nutritional content is richer than cheese and the best part is that it tastes the same. Loaded with antioxidants and flavonoids tofu provides protection against cancer. It not only delays aging but reduces the risk of osteoporosis, hypertension, cardiovascular disease and liver damage. It also lowers the incidence of age-related brain diseases. The phytoestrogen in soya may help relieve symptoms related to menopause, such as hot flashes.

This soy-based protein can be added to any vegan meal for a little extra protein. You will love to have it for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The meat-like texture makes it much more porous to soak up delicious sauces and far more appetizing. Tofu can be so versatile and delicious – it only needs to be prepared in right way. Growing up eating it in different shapes and forms can leave anyone craving for more. Cooking with tofu is never boring!

There are different levels of firmness. Silken tofu is the softest type of tofu. It is so soft that it crumbles as soon as it comes in contact with chopsticks. It has subtle sweet and nutty flavor. The delicate texture is perfect for soups and smoothies. It is also good to eat on its own with a little drizzle of scrumptious sauces.

Medium firm tofu is still fairly soft. However, it is firm enough that it can be cut into cubes and you can hold it in your hands easily. It is perfect to make salad toppings.

Firm tofu holds its shape nicely as it is much less watery. It can be sliced, cubed and crumbled. Excellent in stir-frying, baking or grilling, it is a great vehicle for flavor. It can get beautifully crispy and absorb flavor really nicely.

Sadly, all tofu is not created equal. Embrace only the whole real soy. Say no to processed soy. It includes soy protein isolates and concentrates, soy supplements and soy junk foods. It also comprises of unhealthy fats and other compounds and doesn’t have traditional benefits that whole soy foods do.