Let’s just agree – vegan milk has completely taken over the beverage game! From oats to almonds, there’s no shortage of plant-based options. But, if you’ve been consuming vegan milk for long, you’ll know how the OG of dairy-free milks – soy milk – has been a popular choice among many people. This milk has been around for centuries, and honestly, for a good reason. It has a smooth texture, subtle flavor, and protein content that forces you to give up dairy without losing out on the good stuff. But, there is much more to soy milk than just its benefits, rich history and easy preparation. Want to know how it actually came onto the scene? Then read on to know more about soy milk!
Also read: Is soy milk good for you? 5 health benefits you should know about
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Here are 5 facts about soy milk that will blow your mind:
1. Soy milk originated in Asia
Yes, soy milk is known to first gain popularity in the West, but you might be surprised to know that it has its roots in Asia! Soy milk has been around for thousands of years, with legends saying it originated in China. It was initially consumed as a by-product of tofu and tempeh, especially in Chinese, Japanese, and Korean food traditions. In olden times, soy milk was served with breakfast, where it was seasoned and then eaten as a dipping sauce with pastries.
2. Soy milk became a popular dairy alternative during the world wars
During both World War I and World War II, soy milk became a suitable alternative to dairy when milk supplies were limited. Due to its long shelf life, easy accessibility, and nutritional profile, soy milk quickly became a popular choice in the United States and Europe. In fact, the government promoted soy products to compensate for the shortage of dairy. Soy milk was an instant hit as it was rich in protein, beneficial for soldiers and civilians alike.
3. Soy milk has its place among non-dairy milk alternatives
Once known as a dairy alternative, soy milk has seen a shift in its popularity as a new (but honestly, ancient) non-dairy item enters the market. Almond, oat, macadamia, coconut and rice milks are now available in almost every department store to meet people’s tastes, preferences and nutritional goals. However, soy milk remains a reliable and popular option, especially among those looking for higher-protein options.
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4. It’s the best non-dairy milk for baking
Calling all health conscious bakers! Soy milk is widely considered the best non-dairy milk for baking because of its protein content and consistency. Due to its properties, soy milk is often seen as an excellent alternative to cow’s milk. Soy milk has a creamy texture and natural fat content that makes it an excellent base for baking, unlike thinner alternatives like almond or rice milk.
5. You can make your own soy milk at home
Making soy milk at home is simpler than you might think! All you need are soybeans, water, and a blender. After soaking the soybeans overnight, mix them with fresh water, strain the mixture and boil it to extract the flavor of the bean. It’s extremely versatile, so you can customize it however you want. Plus, it’s cost-effective and free of preservatives that are often found in store-bought varieties.
Also read: 5 Ways to Include Soy Milk in Your Daily Diet
