Drinks
Soy Milk
Ingredients
- - 200 g (1 cup) dried soybeans, soaked overnight
- - 1.5 litres (6 cups) water, divided
- - Sugar, to taste (optional)
Method
- Drain the soaked soybeans and blend with half the water until very smooth.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a nut milk bag into a saucepan, squeezing out as much liquid as possible.
- Add the remaining water to the saucepan and bring the soy milk to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to prevent scorching or boiling over.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, continuing to stir occasionally, until any raw, beany taste has cooked away.
- Sweeten to taste, if desired, and serve warm or chilled.
Introduction: Freshly made soy milk is a beloved breakfast drink across China, traditionally paired with youtiao for dipping, and prepared daily at street stalls from soaked, ground soybeans strained into a warm, lightly sweetened or savoury drink.
Cultural Background: Freshly made soy milk is a beloved breakfast drink across China, traditionally paired with youtiao for dipping, and prepared daily at street stalls from soaked, ground soybeans strained into a warm, lightly sweetened or savoury drink.
Tips: Boiling thoroughly is essential, as raw soy milk contains compounds that should be fully cooked out before drinking. Stir frequently while simmering, as soy milk can scorch on the bottom or foam up and boil over quickly.
Variations: Serve savoury with a splash of soy sauce, chilli oil and chopped pickled vegetables (xian dou jiang) instead of sweetening. Add a few pandan leaves while simmering for extra fragrance.
Storage: Refrigerate in a sealed bottle for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring, or serve chilled straight from the fridge.
Nutrition: Approx. 90 kcal, 7g protein, 4g fat, 6g carbohydrate per serving (unsweetened).
FAQs
Q: Why must soy milk be boiled thoroughly?
A: Raw soybeans contain natural compounds that can cause digestive discomfort; a full rolling boil followed by simmering breaks these down safely.
Q: Can soy milk be served savoury?
A: Yes, in many parts of China it is traditionally served savoury, seasoned with soy sauce, chilli oil and pickled vegetables rather than sugar.