Randy Chandler
Vegan cheese has become increasingly popular, with the global market for it expected to reach $3.9 billion by the end of 2024. Soy cheese is a type of vegan cheese made from pureed soybeans and water, which is then processed to resemble animal-based cheese in appearance and texture. It is also sometimes made from tofu, which is curdled and coagulated soy milk. Soy cheese is cholesterol-free, low in sodium, low in fat, low in calcium, and high in protein. It is available in a variety of flavours, including cheddar, and can be purchased from most health food markets.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Availability | Soy cheddar cheese is available in the market. |
| Taste | The taste of soy cheddar cheese varies, with some reviews describing it as overly sweet, grainy, and coconut-like, while others describe it as having a delicious umami cheesy flavour. |
| Texture | The texture of soy cheddar cheese is described as smooth and creamy, similar to milk cream cheese. |
| Meltability | Soy cheddar cheese melts well and can be used for grilled cheese or burgers. |
| Nutrition | Soy cheddar cheese is cholesterol-free, low in sodium, low in fat, low in calcium, but high in protein. It is also a good source of calcium and riboflavin and vitamin B12. |
| Ingredients | Soy cheddar cheese is made from soy milk, tofu, or soybeans and can include added ingredients like canola oil, soybean oil, salt, guar gums, or carrageenan. |
| Calories | Soy cheddar cheese typically contains 55-80 calories per ounce, which is lower than regular cheese. |
| Protein | Protein levels in soy cheddar cheese vary from 2-7 grams per ounce, with regular cheese containing 6-10 grams. |
| Price | Soy and vegan cheeses were historically more expensive than dairy cheese, but this has changed with the emergence of affordable options like Trader Joe's. |
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What You'll Learn
Soy cheddar cheese is available at Trader Joe's
The product is individually wrapped slices of reasonably convincing fake cheese. While it does have a peculiar soy flavor, this is muted and easily masked when combined with other foods. For example, one reviewer notes that the soy taste is undetectable when paired with a Ritz cracker. The slices are mild, a touch salty, and soft, with a texture that is cheddar-like enough to satisfy.
The product is also a good source of protein and calcium while being low in saturated fat. It is also reasonably priced at around $3. However, it is worth noting that these slices tend to sweat and get a little slimy if they get warm, so they are best suited for snacking or on-the-go rather than for packing in a lunchbox.
Overall, Trader Joe's Soy Slices Cheese Alternative Cheddar Flavor is a convenient and tasty option for those who are lactose intolerant or looking to reduce their dairy intake. It is a versatile product that can be enjoyed on its own, in a sandwich, or melted on top of a burger.
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It is also available on Amazon
Soy cheese is made from soy milk or tofu, and it is a nutrient-rich addition to the soy foods family. It is also a good source of protein and calcium, while being low in saturated fat. Soy cheese is available in several varieties, including cheddar, mozzarella, and pepper jack.
You can find soy cheddar cheese on Amazon.com. While Amazon does not seem to carry soy-based cheddar cheese, it does offer a variety of other soy cheeses, including mozzarella, cream cheese, and packaged macaroni and cheese. These products are offered by brands such as violife, Daiya, 365 by Whole Foods Market, and Field Roast.
In addition to these options, Amazon also offers a range of powdered cheddar cheese products. These powdered cheeses are available in different package sizes, including 8-ounce and 1-pound packs, and they are eligible for free delivery on orders over $25 shipped by Amazon.
Although not specifically soy-based, Amazon also offers dairy-free cheddar cheese options, such as the Field Roast Chao Creamy Original Chao Slices, which are suitable for vegans and melt easily, making them ideal for sandwiches and quesadillas.
So, while you may not be able to find soy cheddar cheese on Amazon, the website does provide a range of alternative cheese options that are made from plant-based or dairy-free ingredients, along with powdered cheddar cheese products.
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It is made from pureed soybeans and water
Soy cheese is made from pureed soybeans and water. It is a dairy-free, plant-based alternative to regular cheese, which is made from dairy milk. Soy cheese is made by soaking soybeans in clean water, grinding them in a mill, extracting the soy milk, and then cooking the milk to collect the cheese. Soy milk can also be made by pouring boiling water over Okara (soy pulp) to get out any extra milk.
The process of making soy cheese involves coagulating a fermented emulsion containing soy milk and a fat composition. A coagulant is added, which can be a mixture of aldonic acid lactones, uronic acid lactones, and other similar substances. A flavor-producing proteolytic enzyme can be added to the mixture before or after fermentation, or even after cooking, to improve the flavour of the cheese. Soy milk can be treated with proteolytic enzymes to minimise the unpleasant beany flavour that is sometimes associated with it.
Soy cheese can also be made using tofu, which is simply curdled and coagulated soy milk. Some soy cheeses have soy protein isolate added, along with some type of oil, such as canola or soybean oil. Flavorings like red and green peppers, herbs, and spices are often added, depending on the type of cheese. Salt is added to all varieties, and some have colourings added to boost texture, like guar gums or carrageenan.
Soy cheese is a good source of protein and calcium and is low in saturated fat. It is also a reasonable option in terms of calories and fat content. It is available in various packages and flavours, such as cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese.
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It is cholesterol-free and low in sodium, fat and calcium
Soy cheese is made from soy milk or tofu, and sometimes has soy protein isolate added, along with some type of oil, like canola or soybean oil. It is a good option for those who are lactose intolerant, as it is milk sugar-free. Soy cheese is available in several varieties, including cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese.
Soy cheddar cheese is cholesterol-free and low in sodium, fat, and calcium. While calcium is essential for bone health, too much calcium buildup in the arteries and veins can lead to an increased risk of blockages and heart disease. Cheddar cheese, in particular, is a source of vitamin K2, which helps prevent this buildup of calcium. However, soy cheese often has calcium added to it, providing a similar nutritional profile to dairy cheese.
In addition to being low in cholesterol and sodium, soy cheese is also lower in calories and fat than regular cheese. Soy cheese typically has 55 to 80 calories per ounce, with an average of around 60 to 70 calories per ounce, while regular cheese has 80 to 110 calories per ounce. Soy cheese is also lower in saturated fat, which is the type of fat that is associated with increased risk factors for heart disease.
For those looking to reduce their cholesterol and sodium intake, soy cheddar cheese is a suitable option. It provides the taste and texture of regular cheddar cheese while being lower in fat, sodium, and cholesterol.
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It is a good source of protein
Soy cheese is made from soy milk, which is derived from pureed soybeans and water. It is a cholesterol-free, nutrient-rich food that is low in sodium, fat, and calcium but high in protein. Soy cheese is a good source of protein, with protein levels varying from 2 grams to 7 grams per ounce. For reference, regular cheese contains between 6 and 10 grams of protein per ounce.
Soy cheese is a great option for those who are lactose intolerant or looking to reduce their dairy intake. It is also a more affordable alternative to other dairy-free cheese options. While it may be difficult to find in regular supermarkets, health and natural food markets typically carry a wider variety of soy cheese options.
Soy cheddar cheese, in particular, is a popular variety of soy cheese. It is often described as having a creamy and soft texture, while still being firm enough to slice and grate. It has a delicious umami cheesy flavour and is a good source of both protein and calcium, with the added benefit of being low in saturated fat.
The protein content of soy cheese can be further increased by adding soy protein isolate. This isolate is often added to soy cheese, along with some type of oil, such as canola or soybean oil, to improve texture and mouthfeel. Soy cheese also tends to be lower in calories than regular cheese, with soy cheeses ranging from 55 to 80 calories per ounce, compared to 80 to 110 calories per ounce in regular cheese.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, there is soy cheddar cheese. It is a type of cheese made from the milk of pureed soybeans. Soymilk is made basically from pureed soybeans and water. It is then processed into a soy-based product that has an appearance and texture that closely resembles cheese made from animal milk.
You can buy soy cheddar cheese at most health or natural food markets. Some supermarkets may also carry a few varieties, such as individually wrapped singles.
One source describes the taste of vegan cheddar as overly sweet, grainy, and tasting like coconut. However, another source describes a homemade soy-based cheddar as creamy and soft, but firm enough to slice and grate, with a delicious umami cheesy flavour.
