Tofu is a by-product of soybeans. It has several healthy qualities, such as maintaining the heart.
Aside from being beneficial for cardiovascular health, tofu can also help lower the risk of various chronic diseases, such as cancer.
Here’s how to dehydrate tofu first, prepare the tofu by draining the water and then cutting it, then put the tofu pieces on a baking sheet lined and covered with paper towels with a heavy object on top, leave for thirty minutes, place it in a single layer on a dehydrator tray, finally leave for 6 to 10 hours.
It can additionally help lower cholesterol levels and improve kidney health. It is also a good source of protein.
This article covers how to dehydrate tofu.
Related: How to Reheat Agedashi Tofu
What Is Tofu?
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Also referred to as bean curd, tofu is a food made from fermented soy milk. It can be soft, firm, or silken.
Various types of tofu can be used in a wide range of savory and sweet dishes.
Its subtle flavor can be used in place of other ingredients in several recipes. Its creamy texture also helps absorb the flavors.
Compared to other food types, tofu is low in calories and has a large amount of protein. It also has a high iron content due to its composition.
It can also have a high magnesium and calcium level, depending on the coagulants used in its production.
Originally from China, tofu has been used in various Asian cuisines in Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, and Japan.
During the Han dynasty, it has also been around for over 2,000 years.
How to Dehydrate Tofu
Prepare the tofu by draining the water and cutting it into strips, chunks, or slabs. These should have a thickness of 1/2 to 1/2 inches.
To assist the drying process, press the tofu until it removes all the moisture.
Placing the cut tofu pieces on a plate or baking sheet lined with paper towels to get rid of more moisture.
Lay another sheet of paper towel on top with a second plate or baking sheet and a heavy object to help weigh it down.
Leave for thirty minutes.
Prepare the tofu in a single layer on a dehydrator tray. Dehydrated food should be set at 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Leave for 6 to 10 hours. Flip the tofu after 3 hours to allow for even dehydration.
Reasons for Dehydrating Tofu
Dehydration helps extend the shelf life of the tofu. Extending the shelf life of food items by dehydration allows them to be kept in a cool and dry environment for several weeks. This is useful for backpacking or traveling.
Removing the water from the tofu also helps reduce its weight. This makes it incredibly easy to pack.
You can eat it as a snack or use it as a base for a meal. To rehydrate dried tofu, add it to a saucepan of water or a combination of water and broth for around 20 minutes.
Read: What can I substitute for Andouille sausage?
Health Benefits of Tofu
These are some of the exciting health benefits associated with tofu;
1. Rich in Protein
Vegetables, tofu, and soy products are excellent protein sources for vegan or vegetarian people.
They also contain essential amino acids that are beneficial for maintaining a healthy body.
2. Hair loss
People prone to experiencing hair loss issues, such as those caused by chemotherapy, often use tofu as it contains keratin, a protein that helps strengthen and promote hair growth.
3. Lowers Cholesterol Level
One of the most important factors people can consider when it comes to maintaining a healthy body is their cholesterol level.
Having a diet rich in protein and low in animal fat can help lower this level.
Compared to other meat products, such as beef, tofu has lower saturated and unsaturated fat levels.
It also has a good source of linoleic acid and lecithin, which help regulate the metabolism and prevent cholesterol deposits in the body.
4. Manages Weight
Besides being beneficial for maintaining a healthy body, eating tofu can also help people lose weight.
A study conducted in China revealed that low-calorie diets that are based on soy could help lower blood lipid levels.
5. Maintains Cardiovascular Health
Being able to reduce one’s risk of cardiovascular diseases is also beneficial for people who are prone to experiencing them.
A regular soy product diet can lower one’s cholesterol and saturated fat levels.
According to a United Nations report, tofu is low in sodium and can be used by people with high blood pressure.
6. Prevents Osteoporosis
One of the most important factors people can consider when it comes to maintaining a healthy body is their calcium level.
Getting enough calcium is essential for maintaining a strong and healthy body.
Consuming it can help prevent osteoporosis, a type of bone disease affecting older people.
7. Anticancer Properties
In addition to being beneficial for maintaining a healthy body, eating tofu can also help people lose weight.
It has been known that isoflavones in this product can lower one’s risk of various types of cancer.
A 2012 study by the National Cancer Institute revealed that higher consumption of this product could help prevent postmenopausal women from developing cancer.
8. Eases Menopause Symptoms
In addition to being beneficial for maintaining a healthy body, eating tofu can also help people lose weight.
It has been known that isoflavones in this product can lower one’s risk of various types of cancer.
The organic compounds found in tofu are known to help manage the symptoms of menopause.
Read: What Are the Best Substitutes for Eggs?
Conclusion
Tofu is an incredible food that should be incorporated into the diet of everyone. It has excellent health benefits.
The article covered how to dehydrate tofu to have a longer shelf life. We hope you find it helpful.
