TOTALLY
TOFU
Tofu
is perhaps one of the most misunderstood of all vegetarian foods. People
are often put off by its strange name and looks - and quite frankly
don't
know what to do with it.
By Chris Hardisty
Tofu
is a truly versatile food and if you are looking for an alternative
source of high quality protein --
look no further! Tofu was originally made in China more than 2,000 years
ago and has long heen known as the "wonder food of the East". Made from
the soya bean, it is richer in protein than any other food of equivalent
weight. It is low in fat, high in calcium and
a good source of iron,
phosphorus, potassium, essential B vitamins, choline and fat soluble
vitamin E.
Another
added bonus is that tofu is cholesterol free,
with calories averaging only 90kCal per 100g / 4oz. You can now buy
tofu in most supermarkets, wholefood and health food stores. It comes
in various forms; silken, firm, exfra firm, smoked and marinated and
can be used in both savoury and sweet dishes. The firm, smoked and
marinated varieties are usually used for savoury dishes, curries, stir
fries and burgers, while the various types of silken tofu are used
in desserts, savoury dips, sauces and mayonnaise. Certain types of
tofu can be deep frozen, resulting in an interesting change of texture.
This makes it more 'spongy' so that it readily soaks up any flavourings
you wish to add.
Tofu is a whole
food which is very easily digestible and therefore eminently suitable
for everyone from the very young to the very old. So don't be put off
any longer by first impressions - tackle tofu and discover a world
of culinary possibilities.
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