Tofu Cheese

Calories, kcal: 73 Proteins, g: 8.1 Fats, g: 4.2 Carbohydrates, g: 0.6

Tofu - bean curd, Tofu cheese or Tofu curd - a product made from soy milk that looks like pickled cheeses or feta cheese. According to one of the legends, Tofu cheese turned out quite by accident, when sea water got into the mass of crushed soybeans after heating. The curdling process took place, after which a completely new product appeared. The first mentions of Tofu products date back to China in the 2nd century BC, where they were first prepared. Then Tofu cheese spread to Japan and the countries of Southeast Asia.

Currently, the production of Tofu cheese practically does not differ from the ancient one, soybeans are crushed, heated and curdled using a coagulant, which is used as citric acid, magnesium chloride or calcium sulfate. The curd mass is pressed and stored in liquid brine. Tofu cheese has a white color, neutral taste and smell, elastic consistency. Tofu cheese is a staple in the diet of many Asian countries and is used by vegans and vegetarians all over the world.

Calorie content of Tofu cheese

The calorie content of Tofu cheese averages 73 kcal per 100 grams of product, depending on the manufacturer.

Composition and useful properties of Tofu cheese

Tofu cheese contains high quality vegetable protein that is quickly and easily absorbed by the body and is the basis for cell building. The polyphenols contained in the product help to maintain the elasticity of the vessel walls, prevent the formation of blood clots and lower the level of "bad" cholesterol. The product contains magnesium, which is responsible for the production of serotonin in the brain and prevents the appearance of symptoms of depression.

Harm of Tofu cheese

The main negative effect of Tofu cheese on the body is a high degree of likelihood of allergic reactions, since soy is one of the strongest allergens. The product can provoke a disturbance in the digestive processes and interfere with the absorption of calcium, especially when taking medications. Therefore, it is recommended to consume Tofu cheese two hours before taking medication or two hours after (calorizator). The daily intake of Tofu cheese without individual restrictions should not exceed 200 grams.

Types of Tofu cheese

Tofu cheese has several varieties:

Hard Tofu - the density of the cheese resembles Mozzarella, this Tofu is usually smoked and fried;

Silky (soft) Tofu - soft texture, silk or pudding. Soft Tofu is ideal for soups, sauces and sweet dishes.

Choosing and storing Tofu cheese

Tofu cheese is commercially available in food carton packs in the form of a rectangle filled with brine. Manufacturers indicate the shelf life of the product on the package, after opening which it is necessary to store the Tofu cheese in the refrigerator for no longer than seven days.

Tofu cheese in cooking

The neutrality of taste and smell allows Tofu cheese to be a unique ingredient in any dish - salads, soups, desserts and sauces. By absorbing the aroma and taste of other products, Tofu cheese fills the dishes with a special consistency and adds satiety. Tofu cheese is deep-fried in batter or breaded, smoked, pickled and baked, added to salads, sauces, desserts.

For more information about Tofu cheese, see the video clip "Cheese Tofu" of the TV show "It's great to live!"