Cooking with Soy Milk

Soybeans are used to create the soy milk that is often called a "soy drink." Soy milk is sweeter and darker than cow's milk. There is also a unique beanlike flavor. While there are refrigerated forms of the milk, there are also powdered versions to consider that offer varying percentages in fat. Usually, flavored versions are considered better for drinking, while unflavored soy milk is typically used for cooking.

Vegetarians and lactose intolerant individuals in the U.S. often drink soy milk, yet other parts of the world had already become accustomed to this beverage as part of their usual diet. In Asia, the general public drinks soy milk, while it commonly accompanies meals.

Soy milk originated in China, where the soybean is rather plentiful. The use of the bean would soon reach other cultures and cuisine styles, including Japanese dishes. Traditionally, soy milk is made when dry soybeans are soaked and then grinded with water. Interestingly, the same amount of protein is contained in the soy version of milk as the kind that comes from a cow.  When looking for a way to use soy milk in your everyday cooking, consider the following recipe:

Pancake or Waffle Mix made with Soy Milk

Ingredients

2 cups of whole-wheat flour (bread flour, not pastry flour)
2 teaspoons of baking powder
2 tablespoons of applesauce
1 tablespoon of light molasses
1 cup soymilk
1 cup apple juice

Instructions

1) Combine all of the ingredients in the order given. Mix well.

2) Add batter to griddle or waffle maker to cook accordingly.