What is soy granules, soya granules?

Soy granules look like tiny pellets, about the size of a cake decorating sprinkle. They are an excellent natural source of soy proteins, which can be used as a vegetarian, healthy and economical meat substitute. They help include the goodness of soy into your everyday diet, in tasty and interesting ways.

How to select soy granules, soya granules

• Soy granules are usually available in prepackaged containers as well as bulk bins.

• Just as with any other food that you may purchase in the bulk section, make sure that the bins are covered and that the store has a good product turnover so as to ensure its maximal freshness.

• Whether purchasing in bulk or in a packaged container, make sure that there is no evidence of moisture or insect damage, and that the granules are whole and not powdery.

How to store soy granules, soya granules

• Store dried soy granules in an airtight container in a cool, dry and dark place where they will keep for up to 12 months.

• Cooked soy granules will keep fresh in the refrigerator for about three days if placed in a covered container.

Culinary Uses of soy granules, soya granules

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Indian snacks using soya granules

Snacks are a must in the evenings and we need something interesting and healthy. Here are recipes for you which are easy and tasty at the same time.

1. Soya Poha an interesting variant of the ever-popular Maharashtrian snack, here the poha is prepared with nutritious soya granules.

2. Nutritious Burger a hearty all-in-one fare. The potato tikkis have been substituted with soya tikkis as the chemical “choline” in it helps to control diabetes and prevent nerve damage.

3. Chick Pea and Soya Tikkis a heart-friendly, low-cholesterol variant made with fibre and protein rich ingredients like soya and chickpeas.

Mix soy granules into any dish to include the goodness of soy into it. It can be used in all kind of dishes - Indian, Chinese and Continental.

• Modify your Upma recipe by adding soy granules for an iron and protein boost.

• Poha made with a mixture of beaten rice and soy granules will become a hit with your family!

• Soy granules can be combined with a variety of rice dishes, curries and subzis.

• You can also spice it up with daily spices and relish it with roti, bread or rice.

• Mix sprouts and soy granules into salads or use as toppings for sandwiches.

• Add soy granules to vegetable stews and soups.

• Tacos can be stuffed with soy granules along with the gravy.

• Munch on a handful of roasted soygranules or sprinkle them on cereal, yogurt, apple sauce, etc., for a little crunch and a lot of nutrients.

Health benefits of soy granules, soya granules

• Soy granules are rich in vitamins, minerals, isoflavones and lecithin, nutrients proven to help lower cholesterol, prevent cancer and loss of bone mass.

• Soy is strongly recommended for diabetics, expectant mothers, growing children, cardiac patients, weight-watchers and the aged.

• A 100 per cent vegetarian high quality protein source that does wonders for young and old.

• Especially great for growing children, as it provides critical vitamins, minerals, fibre and protein.

• Eating more high-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains and soy nuggets helps to lose weight.

• Soy granules are one of the best non-fish sources of essential omega-3 fatty acids, which may help reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.

• Soy protein may provide positive results for people with high blood pressure.

• Soy protein is beneficial to women in post-menopausal years.

• Soy is low in fat and sodium, and may help reduce the risk of heart disease.

soaked soy granules

Prior soaking of soy granules eases cooking. To do this, first wash the soy granules. Then, bring water to a boil and add the soy granules. Allow it to cook for five minutes and then turn off the heat. Let it stay for 4-5 hours. Now, drain and rinse the soygranules. Soaked soy granules are now ready for use in recipes.