3 oz (84 g) Soft Silken Tofu is a great source of nutrition with only 50 calories. This versatile protein-rich food has become increasingly popular as an ingredient in many healthy dishes. It's a perfect ingredient for vegans as it's free from any animal products.
Soft Silken Tofu is not only low in calories but also a great source of protein, iron, and calcium. It contains all-important amino acids that the body needs to function properly. It is made of soy milk and is soft and velvety in texture. It's a must-have food item if you are looking for a healthy and nutritious diet.
In this article, we'll explore what soft silken tofu is, its nutritional benefits, its use in different recipes, how it helps in weight loss and muscle building, and where to buy and store it.
What is Soft Silken Tofu?
Soft silken tofu is made by curdling fresh soy milk with a coagulant. It is then pressed into a solid block using a mold without being pressed or strained. The result is a delicate, silken, and custard-like texture that makes it perfect for blending with other ingredients. This tofu has a very mild flavor and can be used in sweet or savory dishes. It gives an almost creamy texture to whatever you are making. You can add it to smoothies, soups or use it in your favorite dessert recipes. It's a low-fat, low-cholesterol, and low-calorie food that is an excellent source of protein, iron, and calcium. It's a great substitute for animal protein and is particularly useful for vegans and vegetarians.
Soft Silken Tofu Nutrition
Soft silken tofu is low in calories but is a great source of nutrition. A 3 oz serving (84 grams) of soft silken tofu contains:
- 50 calories
- 2.5 grams of fat
- 1 gram of carbohydrates
- 5 grams of protein
- 6% of the recommended daily intake (RDI) of iron
- 15% of the RDI of calcium
It is also a good source of selenium, manganese, and phosphorus. Soft silken tofu is low in sodium and has zero cholesterol, which makes it an excellent addition to a healthy diet.
Benefits of Soft Silken Tofu
Soft silken tofu has numerous health benefits, some of which include:
- It's low in saturated and total fat, which makes it a great ingredient for weight loss diets.
- It is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties, which helps fight against cancer cells and boosts the immune system.
- It is a good source of amino acids, which helps the body repair and build muscle tissue.
- It helps lower bad cholesterol levels and improves heart health.
- It is an excellent food option for vegans and vegetarians who need to maintain a balanced diet without compromising protein intake.
Soft Silken Tofu Recipes
Soft silken tofu is a versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savory recipes. Some of the most popular recipes include:
- Smoothies and shakes - use soft silken tofu as an alternative to dairy or protein powder to add creaminess and protein to your favorite smoothie recipe.
- Miso soup - add cubes of silken tofu to miso soup for extra protein and texture.
- Scrambled tofu - substitute scrambled eggs with scrambled tofu for a delicious breakfast option for vegetarians.
- Vegan cheesecake - use silken tofu as a substitute for cream cheese in your favorite cheesecake recipes to create a lighter, healthier dessert.
The possibilities with soft silken tofu are endless, and you can use it in any recipe that requires creaminess or a mild flavor.
Where to Buy Soft Silken Tofu
Soft silken tofu is readily available in many grocery stores and health food stores. You can find it in the tofu section of the dairy aisle or refrigerated section. You can also buy it online from websites that sell Asian groceries. Look for reputable brands such as Mori-Nu, which offer a wide range of tofu products.
How to Store Soft Silken Tofu
Soft silken tofu is highly perishable and needs to be stored properly to maintain its freshness. Here are some tips for storing soft silken tofu:
- Keep it refrigerated at all times, both before and after opening the package.
- Do not freeze soft silken tofu as it will affect its texture and taste.
- If you only use a portion of the block, wrap the rest tightly in plastic wrap and put it in a resealable bag.
- It's best used within five days of opening the package.
Soft Silken Tofu vs Regular Tofu
Soft silken tofu is not the same as regular tofu. Here are some of the differences between the two:
- Texture - Soft silken tofu has a delicate, silky texture, while regular tofu is firmer and more crumbly.
- Use - Soft silken tofu is best used in recipes that require creaminess, while regular tofu is best for slicing and frying or baking.
- Nutrition - Both are made from soybeans, but soft silken tofu is higher in protein, calcium, and iron than regular tofu.
- Availability - Soft silken tofu is widely available in grocery stores, while regular tofu is usually found in Asian grocery stores or specialty shops.
Soft Silken Tofu for Weight Loss
Soft silken tofu is a great addition to any weight loss diet. Here are some of the reasons why:
- Low in calories - at only 50 calories per serving, you can eat more of it without worrying about gaining weight.
- High in protein - protein helps you feel fuller for longer, which means you eat less and lose weight faster.
- Low in fat and cholesterol - soft silken tofu is low in saturated and total fat, which is great for heart health and weight loss.
Soft Silken Tofu for Muscle Building
Silken tofu is a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle building. Here are some reasons why it's great for building muscle:
- Complete protein - soft silken tofu contains all essential amino acids, which are necessary for muscle growth and repair.
- Easy to digest - the soft, silky texture of silken tofu makes it easy to digest, which means it's quickly absorbed into the body for muscle repair and growth.
- Low in calories - when you are trying to build muscle, you need to eat more calories than you burn. Soft silken tofu is low in calories, which means you can eat more of it without adding to your caloric intake.
Soft Silken Tofu for Vegans and Vegetarians
Soft silken tofu is a great protein source for vegans and vegetarians. Here are some of the reasons why:
- High in protein - soft silken tofu is rich in protein and contains all essential amino acids.
- Low in saturated fat - it's low in saturated and total fat, which is great for heart health and overall health.
- Low in cholesterol - it has zero cholesterol, which makes it an excellent substitute for animal meat.
- Versatility - it can be used in a variety of ways and is a great substitute for dairy products in many recipes.
Soft silken tofu is a healthy and versatile ingredient that offers numerous benefits. It's a must-have food item if you are looking for a low-calorie, protein-rich source of nutrition.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Soft Silken Tofu
1. What is soft silken tofu?
Soft silken tofu is a type of tofu that has a custard-like texture and can be easily blended into soups, dips, and smoothies. It is made from soybeans that are ground into a fine paste, then mixed with water and a coagulant to solidify the mixture. Soft silken tofu has a high water content and a delicate flavor, which makes it an excellent choice for adding creaminess to dishes without adding extra calories or fat.
2. Is soft silken tofu healthy?
Yes, soft silken tofu is a healthy food that is low in calories and high in protein. It is also a good source of iron, magnesium, and other essential nutrients. Tofu has been linked to a lower risk of heart disease, certain types of cancer, and diabetes when consumed as part of a balanced diet. However, it is important to buy non-genetically modified and organic tofu as most soybeans are genetically modified.
3. How do I cook with soft silken tofu?
Soft silken tofu is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different ways. It can be blended into smoothies and shakes, mashed and used as a vegan substitute for eggs in baking recipes, or added to soups, curries, and stir-fries for extra protein and creaminess. Tofu can also be marinated and grilled or pan-fried for a delicious and satisfying meatless main dish.
4. Can I eat soft silken tofu raw?
Yes, soft silken tofu can be eaten raw. Its soft and creamy texture makes it a great addition to salads, dips, and spreads. Raw tofu can also be blended into smoothies and shakes for added protein and creaminess.
5. How do I store soft silken tofu?
Soft silken tofu should be stored in the refrigerator in its original container, covered with water to keep it fresh. Once opened, the tofu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. It is important to check the expiration date on the package and to use it up before it goes bad.