Soybeans are a versatile and nutritious legume that can be used to make a variety of delicious dishes. In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process of making homemade soybeans from scratch. Whether you’re a vegan looking for plant-based protein or simply want to explore new culinary horizons, this recipe is perfect for you.
Ingredients
To make soybeans, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of dried soybeans
- Water for soaking and boiling
- 1 teaspoon of salt (optional)
Step 1: Soaking the Soybeans
Start by rinsing the dried soybeans under cold water to remove any impurities. Then, place the soybeans in a large bowl and cover them with water. Allow the soybeans to soak for at least 8 hours or overnight. The soaking process helps soften the beans and reduces cooking time.
Step 2: Boiling the Soybeans
After soaking, drain the soybeans and transfer them to a large pot. Add enough water to cover the beans and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Let the soybeans simmer for about 2 hours or until they are tender. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface during boiling.
Step 3: Draining and Cooling
Once the soybeans are cooked to perfection, drain them using a colander or strainer. Rinse them under cold water to cool them down and stop the cooking process. Gently shake the colander to remove any excess water.
Step 4: Removing the Skins
To make smooth and creamy soybeans, it’s important to remove the skins. This step is optional but recommended for a better texture. To do this, take a handful of cooked soybeans and rub them between your palms. The skins will start to loosen and separate from the beans. Repeat this process until most of the skins are removed.
Step 5: Blending
Transfer the skinless soybeans to a blender or food processor. Add a cup of water and blend until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. If desired, you can add a teaspoon of salt for flavor.
Step 6: Straining
To remove any remaining solids, strain the blended soybean mixture using a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve. Gently squeeze the cheesecloth to extract as much liquid as possible. The resulting liquid is known as soy milk.
Step 7: Cooking the Soy Milk
Pour the soy milk into a clean pot and heat it over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching. Cook the soy milk for about 20 minutes or until it reaches a gentle simmer. Be careful not to let it boil.
Step 8: Cooling and Storing
Once the soy milk has cooled down, transfer it to a clean container or bottle. Refrigerate it for at least 2 hours to allow it to thicken and develop flavor. Homemade soy milk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve successfully made homemade soybeans from scratch. Now you can enjoy the creamy and nutritious goodness of soy milk in your favorite recipes. Experiment with different flavors and additions like vanilla extract or sweeteners to customize your soy milk. Get creative and explore the endless possibilities of this versatile ingredient!