Bushra Griffith
Soy cheese is a dairy-free cheese alternative made from soy milk and/or tofu. It is a popular option for those who are lactose intolerant or vegetarian. The taste of soy cheese varies depending on the brand and type, with some varieties having added salt, sugar, herbs, and spices to enhance the flavour. While soy cheese is a good substitute for dairy cheese in terms of nutritional value, it may not deliver the same taste or texture as regular cheese.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ingredients | Soy milk, tofu, soy protein isolate, canola oil, soybean oil, red/green peppers, spices, herbs, salt, sea salt, colourings, guar gums, carrageenan, calcium, milk protein (caseinate) |
| Taste | Salty, tangy, sweet, creamy, grainy, coconutty, rich, savoury |
| Texture | Smooth, light, airy, creamy, melts well |
| Nutritional value | Comparable calcium content to dairy cheese, moderate amount of sodium, Lactose-free, low calories and fat |
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What You'll Learn
Soy cheese is made from soy milk or tofu
Soy milk is an inexpensive, nutritive dairy substitute that is used to make cheese and cheese analogues worldwide. It is also used to make baked goods, such as muffins, and can be added to smoothies to enhance their taste and bring out a little more sweetness. Soy milk can be made at home by soaking soybeans overnight, boiling them for 10 minutes, blending them with water until smooth, and then cooking the mixture on low heat for 40 minutes. Once the mixture has been simmered, it is drained through cheesecloth to remove lumps.
Tofu, on the other hand, is tasteless and has sponge-like qualities, allowing it to soak up spices and flavours. It is made from curdled and coagulated soy milk. Tofu can be used to make soft cheeses, and it can also be blended with cow's milk to make fresh soft soy cheese, improving the sensory qualities of soy cheese, such as colour, taste, flavour, and overall acceptability.
Soy cheese often has added ingredients to improve its flavour and texture. For example, soy protein isolate, oils, salt, flavourings such as herbs and spices, and ingredients to boost texture, such as guar gums or carrageenan. Some soy cheeses also have calcium added, providing a nutritional profile similar to dairy cheese.
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It's a good source of calcium and vitamins
Soy cheese is a good source of calcium and vitamins, making it a nutritious alternative to dairy cheese. It is made from soy milk and/or tofu, which is simply curdled and coagulated soy milk.
Many soy cheeses are fortified with calcium, providing a similar nutritional profile to dairy cheese. Dairy cheeses typically provide between 15 and 30% of the daily value for calcium, and some soy cheeses offer a comparable amount. However, it is important to note that not all soy cheeses contain calcium, so checking the nutritional label is essential.
In addition to calcium, soy cheeses can also be a good source of vitamins. Some brands are fortified with about 10% of the daily value for Vitamin A and E, which are valuable antioxidants. This adds to the nutritional benefits of soy cheese as a dairy alternative.
Soy cheese also has a positive impact on the nutritional value of other foods. For example, combining soy milk with cow's milk to make mozzarella cheese enhances its nutritional content. The proportion of soy milk added to cow's milk positively correlates with the overall nutritional quality of the cheese.
Furthermore, soy cheese can be a good source of protein. The addition of soy protein isolate (SPI) in cheddar cheese, for instance, improves its sensory properties and makes it more acceptable in terms of flavor. Soy protein concentrates can also be incorporated into soy cream cheese to enhance its taste.
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It has a tangy, savoury taste
Soy cheese is made from soy milk and/or tofu, and it is a great alternative for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan. The taste of soy cheese varies depending on the brand and type, but it generally has a tangy, savoury taste.
The tanginess of soy cheese is often compared to that of cream cheese. It is also described as having a fermented flavour, especially when used in dishes like Greek salad. The tanginess of the cheese is usually complemented by a creamy texture, which can be enhanced by cooking methods such as melting or grilling.
The savoury taste of soy cheese can be attributed to the addition of garlic powder and spices. The specific spices used can vary, with some brands adding cinnamon, bay leaf, cardamom, and cumin seeds to improve the flavour. This rich savouriness is especially noticeable in dishes like grilled cheese sandwiches or burgers, where the cheese can add a depth of flavour.
The texture of soy cheese also varies depending on the brand and type. Some varieties have a smooth, creamy texture, while others are described as grainy or airy. The texture can be improved by adding ingredients such as soy protein isolate, oils, or gums.
Overall, the tangy, savoury taste of soy cheese makes it a versatile alternative to dairy cheese. It can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, grilled cheese sandwiches, burgers, and dips. The flavour and texture of soy cheese have been constantly improved by researchers, making it a viable option for those looking for a dairy-free alternative.
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It has a creamy texture
Soy cheese is made from soy milk and/or tofu, which is simply curdled and coagulated soy milk. It is a great alternative for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan.
Soy cheese has a creamy texture, reminiscent of milk cream cheese. The texture is smooth, light, and airy, and much better once melted. It is perfect for grilled cheese or burgers, as it melts quickly and has a good texture.
The addition of vegan butter to soy cheese can add a needed saltiness. Soy cheese can also be used as a dip with pita chips, spread on toast, or in a spinach artichoke dip. It can also be added to boiled potatoes with vegan butter, roasted garlic, and seasoning.
Soy cheese has a slightly tangy taste, with a rich savoriness. The tanginess is less than that of regular cream cheese. The addition of garlic powder and spices can add to the savouriness of the cheese.
Soy cheese can be purchased from health or natural food markets, with at least 12 companies producing soy cheese, including White Wave, Rella Good Cheese Co., and Soyco Foods.
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It's available in a variety of flavours
Soy cheese is available in a variety of flavours, depending on the type of cheese it is imitating. For example, pepper jack, Mexican, or garlic/herb. The flavourings added to soy cheese include red/green peppers, spices, herbs, and salt.
Some soy cheeses have added calcium, which is a plus from a dietitian's viewpoint, as the nutritional calcium profile is then similar to dairy cheese. Many of the soy cheeses on the market are fortified with calcium and offer between 15 and 30% calcium.
Soy cheese is also available in different textures, from light and airy to smooth and creamy. The texture can be boosted by adding ingredients like guar gums or carrageenan.
In terms of taste, soy cheese can be salty and slightly tangy, striving to replicate the flavour of its dairy counterpart. It can also be sweet, with a grainy texture, especially when uncooked. The sweetness often comes from its main ingredients, such as cashews and coconut oil.
Some soy cheeses are designed to melt well and can be used for grilled cheese or burgers. These may not have a strong cheese flavour, but the texture and saltiness can enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Overall, the flavour and quality of soy cheese can vary depending on the brand, ingredients, and production methods.
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Frequently asked questions
The taste of soy cheese depends on the brand and type. Some soy cheeses have added flavorings such as red/green peppers, spices, and herbs. Soy cheeses that are meant to replicate specific types of cheese, such as cheddar or feta, will have a flavor profile that is similar to their dairy counterparts.
Soy cheese is made from soy milk and/or tofu. Soy milk is a plant-based milk prepared from soybeans. Tofu is made from curdled and coagulated soy milk.
Most supermarkets carry a few varieties of soy cheese, such as individually wrapped slices. Health food and natural food markets will have a wider selection of soy cheeses.
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