Is Tofu good for you?

Tofu, made from soya beans and much loved by vegans and vegetarians world wide is a staple ingredient in most kitchens. However what are the many ways in which we can actually use tofu; what are its health benefits and just how much of it should we consume in a day? These questions and more will be answered, as it is really important to know how exactly to use our favourite ingredient.

There are so many tofu choices in the market, which makes it imperative that the brand you choose uses the best ingredients and processes to make their tofu.

Bio Nutrients launched their Tofu Gold which is a medium firmness tofu that is non-GMO. It is made with their soya milk powder which eliminates the beany aftertaste tofu is known for. Additionally, Tofu Gold is very easy to digest as the fibre is removed during the manufacturing process. Tofu Gold is available at all major department stores such as Hypercity, Nature's Basket, Star Bazaar etc. and also on their website.

How much Tofu can I eat in a Day?

Tofu is a complete source of  dietary protein, that means that it contains all the essential amino acids a person requires. Making it very different to other plant-based proteins. According to bodyandsoul.com who consulted with dietitian Chloe McLeod, one serving is equal to 120 gms and it is completely safe to consume 2 servings a day of soya products. So go ahead and add tofu or soya milk to your daily diet but make sure to measure those quantities out.

Is Tofu Naturally good for you?

Bio Nutrients uses only the best soya milk powder, made from non-GMO soya beans to make their tofu. Hence, it is naturally lactose-free, cholesterol-free, dairy-free, sugar-free, gluten-free and free from saturated fats. Making it an excellent addition to any diet.
 

What are the Different uses?

Many people, not just vegans and vegetarians use tofu in their everyday dishes, and you'll be surprised at how easy it is to use in many recipes and not just a simple stir fry. Tofu is very versatile. It can be used as a paneer and meat replacement, which is often the case, when people first make the switch to veganism. Tofu Gold is easily available online and in most stores, making it very convenient for those who are craving a good substitute. Tofu also absorbs flavour which is why it’s particularly great in stir fries and curries.

Here are some of our favourite ways to use tofu:

1. Great for breakfast, scrambled or made into a burji - a perfect breakfast in our minds.

2. Raw in clear soups or broths - we love chinese style clear soups with tofu chunks and noodles.

3. Replacement for cheese in salads - add them raw to a fresh leafy salad.

4. Kebabs at a BBQ party - Tofu chunks with veggies on a skewer and grilled is yum!

5. Puddings - blend tofu, banana, soy milk and cocoa powder in a blender until smooth for a delicious pudding

6. Superb replacement for meat or paneer in any Indian curry

7. Add tofu to smoothies for a thick smoothie bowl that will keep you full for hours.

8. Baked in the oven with a few herbs, gives tofu a lovely texture and taste. It goes well with a quinoa pulav

9. Tofu tastes lovely in a toasted sandwich with some veggies.

10. Fried tofu pakoras are an excellent snack - we're all allowed one guilt-free snack!

What are the Health Benefits

If you consume the recommended 2 servings of tofu in a day the health benefits are hard to ignore. It is high in calcium, manganese, selenium, phosphorous, iron, copper, magnesium and Zinc. It is also said to reduce the levels of bad cholesterol. The calcium and isoflavones are said to improve bone density. Also, tofu contains phytoestrogens that are similar to the structure of the hormone oestrogen and mimic the actions of the hormone in a body, this currently has a mixed-bag of opinions saying it could be good or bad for you - this debate we will address at another time. At the moment, we feel that eating tofu and soya in the recommended amount as with all other foods, is best. Everything in moderation.

We don't know about you but we're craving Tofu now. What do you think, got anymore ways to uses for Tofu? Tell us in the comments.

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