TOTALLY TOFU

TOFU IS THE BEST FOOD FOR VEGETARIAN

Tofu is perhaps one of the most misunderstood of all vegetarian foods. People are often put off by its strange name and looks - and quite frankly don't know what to do with it.
By Chris Hardisty

Tofu is a truly versatile food and if you are looking for an alternative source of high quality protein -- look no further! Tofu was originally made in China more than 2,000 years ago and has long heen known as the "wonder food of the East". Made from the soya bean, it is richer in protein than any other food of equivalent weight. It is low in fat, high in calcium and a good source of iron, phosphorus, potassium, essential B vitamins, choline and fat soluble vitamin E.

Another added bonus is that tofu is cholesterol free, with calories averaging only 90kCal per 100g / 4oz. You can now buy tofu in most supermarkets, wholefood and health food stores. It comes in various forms; silken, firm, exfra firm, smoked and marinated and can be used in both savoury and sweet dishes. The firm, smoked and marinated varieties are usually used for savoury dishes, curries, stir fries and burgers, while the various types of silken tofu are used in Tofu is a whole food which is very easily digestible and therefore eminently suitable for everyone from the very young to the very old. So don't be put off any longer by first impressions - tackle tofu and discover a world of culinary possibilities. desserts, savoury dips, sauces and mayonnaise. Certain types of tofu can be deep frozen, resulting in an interesting change of texture. This makes it more 'spongy' so that it readily soaks up any flavourings you wish to add.