Good for the planet and for your health… Very high protein tofu is an increasingly popular meat substitute. Discover more information about this vegan cheese in this article.
The history of tofu!
Born in China more than 2,000 years ago, this paste made from yellow soybeans, called tofu, is the result of a handling error made with soy milk.
Indeed, this food therefore results from an effect identical to that of rennet associated with boiled cow’s milk. Hence its nickname “soy cheese”! Consumed by vegetarian monks, it is consecrated “Buddha’s meat”.
Tofu arrived in Japan in the 8th century, where it seduced Emperor Kammu, who, by imperial edict, created the corporation of “Tofu Cheese Masters”, still in operation. Today, this cheese is now one of the staples of Asian food.
Tofu: the health advantage!
Plain or smoked, firm and silky… Tofu is widely available and is appealing to new consumers who are inclined to reduce the consumption of meat in their meals. Rich in easily assimilated vegetable proteins, and richer in iron than beef, also in magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, zinc… From now on, this food is a good substitute for meat products.
By slowing the decline of estrogen in the body, tofu also helps fight against aging. Likewise, its low calorie content makes it an excellent slimming ally. It is advisable to consume tofu particularly at seasonal changes, and during periods of fatigue. However, it should not be abused, as it can limit iron absorption.
Kitchen side !
If this cheese is now available on supermarket shelves, it is better to favor organic. Sweet or savory, it is very easy to cook. Moreover, its neutral taste effectively allows it to absorb the aromas of the ingredients with which it is prepared. It’s simple, so just let it marinate in soy sauce, lemon juice, spices and herbs.
You can then mix it in a salad, incorporate it into a quiche or sauté it in a pan. In addition, the texture of tofu supports long cooking times and it becomes crispy when fried. Its silky version is prepared in sauce and can replace fresh cream or mayonnaise. A good way to revisit our recipes!
On the menu of top restaurants !
Long confined to miso soup found on Asian tables. Tofu is attracting more and more Western chefs. In fact, it is found in particular on the menu of starred restaurants in France. Like that of chef Thierry Marx, installed at the Mandarin Oriental, in Paris.
Sign of the times: Similarly, in 2021 and for the first time, the Michelin Guide awarded a star to a vegan chef. This is the chef Claire Vallée, at the head of the restaurant ONA, Non-animal origin, located in Arès, in the Arcachon basin. An auspicious recognition for tofu…
