Soy Milk

Soy milk is a plant-based dairy alternative made from soybeans, and it is available throughout the year. It is a versatile ingredient commonly used in vegan and lactose-intolerant diets. Soy milk is prevalent in Asian cuisines and is gaining popularity globally as a substitute for cow's milk. It can be used in a variety of culinary applications, including baking, smoothies, sauces, and as a beverage. Its mild, creamy texture makes it a suitable dairy alternative in many recipes.

Soy Milk Synonyms

Soya milk
soybean milk

Soy Milk Substitutes

Heavy Cream
Milk
Unsweetened Almond Milk
Cashew Cream

Different Forms/Types of Soy Milk

Culinary

Soy milk designed specifically for cooking and baking, with stabilizers to prevent curdling at high temperatures.

Flavored

Soy milk infused with flavors such as vanilla, chocolate, or almond, tailored for direct consumption or specific recipes.

Fortified

Soy milk enhanced with additional nutrients like calcium, vitamins D and B12, catering to those looking for a nutritional boost.

Sweetened

Soy milk with added sugars or sweeteners, often used in desserts or as a sweeter alternative to dairy milk in beverages.

Unsweetened

Soy milk in its most natural form without added sugars or flavorings, allowing the pure taste of soy to come through.

How to Choose Soy Milk

When choosing soy milk, consider the purpose of its use. For savory dishes, unsweetened and unflavored varieties work best. Look for non-GMO or organic certifications if you prefer soy milk made from soybeans that have not been genetically modified. Check the ingredient list for additives and preservatives if you're looking for a more natural product. The nutritional label will also provide information on sugar and protein content, which can guide you to the best option for your dietary needs.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Soy Milk

Soy milk, a plant-based alternative to dairy milk, is a versatile ingredient in the kitchen. When cooking with soy milk, it's important to note that it can curdle under high heat or in the presence of acid, much like dairy milk. To prevent this, add soy milk towards the end of the cooking process and avoid boiling it. Gently heating soy milk will preserve its smooth texture. Additionally, soy milk can be used as a dairy substitute in baking, but since it's less rich than cow's milk, you might want to add a bit of oil to compensate for the lower fat content. For savory dishes, unsweetened and unflavored soy milk is preferable to maintain the integrity of the dish's flavor profile.

Shelf Life of Soy Milk

Store unopened shelf-stable soy milk in a cool, dry place, and refrigerate after opening. Consume it within 7-10 days of opening. For refrigerated soy milk, keep it in the refrigerator at all times and adhere to the use-by date on the packaging. Do not freeze soy milk, as it can alter the texture and taste. Shake well before use, as natural separation can occur.

Recommended Brands for Soy Milk

culinary soy milk: EdenSoy

flavored soy milk: Alpro

fortified soy milk: So Delicious

sweetened soy milk: Silk

unsweetened soy milk: Silk

Cooking Techniques for Soy Milk

Baking: Use soy milk as a dairy substitute in baking recipes. It can replace cow's milk at a 1:1 ratio, but remember to adjust the fat content if necessary by adding oil or another fat source.

Blending: Soy milk is commonly used in smoothies and blended drinks. Its neutral flavor and creamy texture make it an excellent base for fruits and other ingredients.

Simmering: Gently simmer soy milk in soups, sauces, or curries to add creaminess without curdling. Keep the temperature low and stir frequently.

Popular Soy Milk Recipes

Vegan Bechamel Sauce
Dairy-Free Pancakes
Silken Tofu Chocolate Mousse

Soy Milk Nutritional Information (100g)

fat: 1.8 g
fiber: 0.6 g
sugar: 4 g
protein: 3.3 g
calories: 54 kcal
carbohydrates: 6.3 g

Flavor Combinations

Soy milk pairs well with sweet flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and berries in desserts and breakfast dishes. In savory recipes, it complements ingredients like mushrooms, greens, and grains. Spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom enhance its flavor in sweet applications, while garlic, ginger, and soy sauce are great for savory dishes. Nutritional yeast or vegan cheeses can be added to soy milk to create a rich, cheesy flavor in vegan recipes.

Allergen Information

Soy is one of the eight major allergens. People with a soy allergy should avoid soy milk and products containing soy. Symptoms of a soy allergy can range from mild to severe and include hives, itching, swelling, stomach pain, and in rare cases, anaphylaxis.