5 Reasons to Celebrate Soyfoods Month

By Linda Funk, Executive Director
The Soyfoods Council

April is National Soyfoods Month, making it the perfect time to experiment with versatile soyfoods ingredients. There really are sound reasons as to why tofu, edamame, soymilk and other soy ingredients should be in every kitchen!

5 Reasons to Experiment with Soyfoods:

Taste – The mild flavor of soyfoods make them an adaptable ingredient. For example, add edamame to home-grown sweet corn or vegetable soup. This time of year, you’re most likely to find it in freezer section. In the summer, look for edamame at farmer’s markets.
Texture – Whether you want smooth, chewy, creamy or crunchy, there’s a soyfood perfect for you! Silken tofu is ideal for salad dressings. For protein with crunch, try soy nuts. Soy nuts also can be added to your favorite cookie recipe or trail mix.
Health and Nutrition – Soybeans are a simple way to add protein and fiber to your diet. Soy protein is so healthy for you. It’s low in saturated fat and has no cholesterol. It’s also high in polyunstaurated fat and provide essential omega-3 fatty acids. Click here for more health benefits.
Versatility – Soyfood ingredients lend themselves to beverages, appetizers, entrees, side dishes and desserts. Check out The Soyfood Council’s website for more ideas.
Convenience – Soyfood recipes are quick and easy. For example, making “No Fuss Cupcakes” is as simple as adding silken tofu to a cake mix.

With all of these benefits, why not try adding it to some of your favorite recipes?

Spring and summer provide perfect opportunities to try something new like smoothies or dip as you relax on the patio with your family and friends. Soybeans make the perfect snack for people of all ages! To help you get started, below is a recipe for Edamame Dip.

Stay tuned to learn more about Soymilk Smoothies. And, let us know what you create!

Edamame Dip

Ingredients

Ingredients:

1½ c. edamame, cooked
1 T. soybean oil
½ tsp. salt
½ tsp. ground cumin
2 garlic cloves, minced
3 T. water
3 T. fresh lemon juice

Instructions

Directions:

Prepare edamame, according to package instructions but omit the salt.
Place oil, salt, cumin and garlic in a food processor; pulse 2 to 3 times or until coarsely chopped.
Add edamame, water, and lemon juice; process 1 minute or until smooth.
Spoon dip into serving bowl.
Serve with pita chips or your favorite vegetables.