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• Tofu is derived from soybeans. It is high in protein, and low in calories and cholesterol. It is generally bland in taste, and often takes on the flavor of the items it is cooked with. It comes in several consistencies. Firm tofu is best for cooking, while silken tofu is better for dips, creams, spreads, and soups.

  Tofu is a staple for vegetarian diets. It's also an excellent replacement for red meat, for those trying to lose weight and reduce saturated fat in their diet.

• Fast Facts

  1. Origin: China
  2. Soy-based food
  3. Used largely in Chinese and Japanese cuisine
  4. Popular in Vegetarian and Vegan food
  5. Healthy: 100 grams of Tofu contains, on average, 8 grams of protein and 350 mg of calcium

• How Tofu Is Made

  The tofu-making process is similar to how cheese is made. Soybeans are first soaked, then ground, in order to make a soy milk. The mixture is then heated almost to boiling and filtered to remove all solid matter. The liquid is mixed with a coagulant (common coagulants are epsom salts and gypsum), which solidifies much of the material into curds. The curds are placed in a mold and pressed together to remove some of the liquid.

• Related Mahalo Pages

  Soy Foods | Vegan Food | Vegetarian Food | Chinese Food | Japanese Food | Seitan | Tofurkey | Vegan Wine | Best Vegetarian Christmas | How to Become a Vegetarian | How to Make Authentic Chinese Food

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