What is Tofu? – Panlasang Pinoy

Solid, white, and with a variety of textures, it is one of the most suitable ingredients in Asian cuisine. This is a great example of a plant-based protein; Many vegans and vegetarians incorporate it into their dishes as a good substitute for meat and fish. But even meat eaters can find great joy in this small but mighty ingredient. Tofu is a wonderful meal in itself, which you can enjoy with all your loved ones.

Where does it come from?

Tofu is a product of concentrated soy milk that is then compressed into blocks and cooled. The process of depriving and solidifying soy milk is similar to how cheese is made! The name itself comes from the Japanese word tōfu. This in turn comes from Mandarin Dufowhich means “bean flour” or “bean fermentation”.

His history is complicated and complicated. There are three theories as to how the compound was formed. However, the most common occurs in the Han Dynasty, when a Chinese prince supposedly discovered the ingredient. Another theory suspects that it was accidentally discovered. Rumor has it that a chef accidentally mixed a batch of fresh soy milk with an impure sea salt called nigari. Because sea salt is still impure, its calcium and magnesium salt levels were high. This will be enough for the soy milk to curdle and achieve the gel-like consistency we associate with it today.

It came to Japan later through the Zen Buddhist monks in the 8th century. In fact, the Edo period book Tofu Hyakuchin lists 100 ways to cook the ingredient! Chinese immigrants from Fujian province also started introducing it to Southeast Asian countries, such as Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines, among others. Its demand and use grew rapidly in Asian countries, with more and more cuisines incorporating it into their meals.

But its rise only reached the West in the 1960s, where more Western countries began to express interest in Asian cuisine, a healthy lifestyle, and vegetarianism. Because of said interest, it has become more common, so much so that a variety of prepackaged tofu can be found in supermarkets across those countries now.

Kinds:

Tofu comes in a myriad of shapes and textures. Generally, you can divide into “fresh” or “processed”. The first comes directly from the Kurkar Soy Milk product, while the second comes from fresh tofu itself. But within these two categories, there are also different variations that you can enjoy, depending on your preference!

fresh

Fresh tofu can come unpressed or compressed. The former usually has a soft or ultra-soft consistency. Another name for extra soft tofu is sundubu in korean You usually eat extremely soft food with little or no seasoning. Its consistency is watery, loose and soft. It crumbles almost immediately, and is quite similar to cottage cheese.

soft

It can also be called “silk tofu”. Although the soft variety is more compact than sundubu, this version contains a high moisture content, and is still quite delicate compared to the solid ones. In many vegan products, it is silken tofu that acts as a substitute for milk, cheese and other dairy products, as well as eggs.

Another form of soft tofu is dawa. Douhua is a popular breakfast in China, cooked like silk but left a little longer before serving. There is some debate as to whether we can really consider duva to be a type of tofu or a food in its own right. However, its consistency and cooking methods are very similar to the ingredient. Other variations of soft tofu include black dawa (derived from black soybeans) or edamame tofu in Japan, which is light green in color.

solid

True to its name, pressed tofu refers to those that have been pressed and hardened into the lumpy shape we know tofu should take. Firm tofu has the texture of raw meat, which is why it is the most common type of tofu when looking for meat substitutes. Although it is chewy and quite firm, it still has a high moisture content. It doesn’t crumble like soft tofu, and is definitely much more compact.

Extra firm

This type of tofu, however, contains the lowest amount of moisture. It can be firm like cooked meat or have a rubbery texture. You can serve this firm type of tofu cold, stir fried, or even add to soup – the possibilities are endless!

If you’re already overwhelmed, don’t forget: all the types of tofu I’ve mentioned now only refer to the “fresh tofu” version! There is still the processed tofu that you can try and enjoy.

processed

Processed tofu refers to products that can be made from fresh tofu. In supermarkets and groceries, you can usually find them labeled as pickled tofu, stinky tofu, and thousand-layer tofu. Whether fermented or frozen, processed tofu takes many forms, catering to the taste preferences of many people.

What is your favorite type of tofu?

how do you cook it

From its humble origins in China, the bean’s popularity has only grown over time, finding a home in countries not only in Asia but around the world. As we mentioned earlier, tofu is a versatile and dynamic ingredient – suitable for almost any type of food or cuisine!

There are so many ways to cook tofu – so many different recipes to try! We Filipinos love tofu, oh Tokwa, as we know it, and combine it in all kinds of dishes. Tofu is a great meat substitute, soaking up the rich flavors that come with many of our main dishes. But it’s also wonderful on its own, and is great in stir-fries and other meals. Have you ever had crispy tofu skin before? With a nice Asian dipping sauce, it makes a great appetizer or light snack!

The chewy texture of tofu goes great in some classic Filipino dishes. For example, this pig adobo With tofu brings a delicious and slightly healthier twist to the traditional recipe. Tofu works well with pork, especially if you’re looking to reduce your meat intake. In this recipe we use less red pork and more tofu in order to maintain a more balanced diet.

One of the most popular Tokwa Dishes in Filipino cuisine are, of course, delicious and delicious good boy. good boy It is a combination of limpo tofu and fatty pork belly served in a delicious mixture of soy sauce and vinegar. with other ingredients such as onion, green onion and pepper, Good byeboy Makes a great starter or side dish for meals like lugaw or Packed Caldo. Its salty and sour taste creates a complex and delicious bite!

But if you are more inclined towards vegetables, tofu goes well with them too! Just look at it Lumpiang Sariwa Recipe (fresh spring roll). In this recipe, tofu and the other vegetables create a refreshing and delicious bite. Another recipe to try is this tofu in black bean sauce, which is quick, easy, and oh so delicious!

But you don’t just have to use bean curd in appetizers and main dishes – you can use it in desserts too! As mentioned, tofu can be a substitute for a number of milk and dairy products. Using it in dishes like Leche Flan can still give you the consistency and flavor you’re looking for. And of course, who could ever forget the classic Tahoe? Sliced ​​hot tofu served in a delicious sweet syrup is a great treat at any time of the day. Plus, it’s so easy to make at home too!

With its versatility and reliability in the kitchen, tofu is a wonderful companion to your dining table in any way, shape or form. Don’t be afraid to try it with your loved ones!

Is it healthy?

The short answer – – yes! Beans make meals that are not only delicious but also nutritious at the dinner table!

Because it is a soy product, bean cream has a high amount of legumes, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease. Consuming a healthy amount of tofu also helps reduce the risk of selected types of cancer, such as breast, prostate and digestive tract. Soy isoflavones present in the ingredient help maintain blood sugar control – perfect for diabetics!

Tofu is also an excellent source of protein and contains all nine essential amino acids! It is a great source of iron and calcium, which can make your bones and body healthy and strong.

It’s no real surprise why tofu has become such a popular and beloved ingredient in several cuisines around the world. Its adaptability and its various forms make it suitable for almost any type of meal. Although it may be a humble ingredient, its flavor can really pack a punch, and can find a home on any dining table. And not only is it delicious, it also does wonders for your health.

For those on a plant-based diet or who want to eat healthier, tofu is really the way to go. Don’t be afraid to try it today!