Fresh soy milk is a nutritious and delicious plant-based milk alternative. With its smooth, creamy texture and subtle natural sweetness, fresh soy milk makes a fantastic replacement for cow’s milk in everything from cereal to coffee. Here’s why you should consider making the switch to this tasty, good-for-you beverage. Unlike traditional soy milk that’s been processed and shelf-stabilized, fresh soy milk is minimally processed and meant to be consumed within a week of production. This gives it a fresher, richer taste reminiscent of dairy milk. Find out how to easily make Fresh Soy Milk right at home.
Why Choose Fresh Soy Milk?
Why Choose Fresh Soy Milk?
There are many reasons to switch to fresh soy milk:
Higher in protein than dairy milk
Excellent source of vitamins and minerals like vitamin D, calcium, vitamin B12
Contains healthy fats like omega-3s
Lactose-free and vegan – good for lactose intolerance and vegan diets
Environmentally sustainable – uses less water than almond or cow’s milk
Delicious taste and versatility – great for drinking, baking, and cooking
With its stellar nutritional profile and adaptability in recipes, fresh soy milk can be an easy and nutritious swap for cow’s milk.
Health Benefits Of Fresh Soy Milk
Fresh soy milk is packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals that make it a smart choice for your health.
One cup contains 7-10 grams of high-quality protein compared to 8 grams in cow’s milk. Soy protein provides all the essential amino acids your body needs.
Fresh soy milk is an excellent source of calcium, containing 300-500 mg per cup. This aids in building strong bones when consumed regularly.
It’s also rich in antioxidants like isoflavones which benefit heart health by improving cholesterol levels. Drinking soy milk can help lower LDL or “bad” cholesterol.
The nutrients and phytochemicals in soy milk deliver additional benefits like easing menopause symptoms, promoting healthy weight management, and reducing cancer risk.
Versatility Of Fresh Soy Milk
You can seamlessly incorporate fresh soy milk into your daily diet thanks to its versatility.
For breakfast, use it on your cereal, oatmeal, or smoothie instead of regular milk. It makes pancakes and waffles extra fluffy too.
In cooking and baking, soy milk can typically replace cow’s milk at a 1:1 ratio. Use it when making soups, sauces, or cream-based dishes.
Craft lattes, chais, protein shakes, and other beverages with soy milk. Its creamy texture and touch of sweetness enhances the flavor.
Try unique recipes like soy milk kefir, yogurt, pudding, and ice cream to enjoy its benefits in different ways.
Ingredients To Make Fresh Soy Milk
Ingredients To Make Fresh Soy Milk
Here are the basic ingredients needed to make fresh soy milk at home:
Soybeans – 1 cup of dried soybeans will make about 3-4 cups of soy milk. Make sure to soak the beans overnight and rinse before using.
Water – 4 cups of water per 1 cup of soaked soybeans. The water helps extract the soy milk from the beans.
Sweetener (optional) – 1-2 tablespoons of sugar, honey, maple syrup, etc. to taste. This helps balance the natural bean flavor of the soy milk.
Salt (optional) – 1/4 teaspoon salt. Salt enhances flavor.
Add soaked beans and 4 cups water to a blender. Blend on high for 1-2 minutes until very smooth.
Pour bean mixture into a pot. Bring to a gentle boil while stirring frequently.
Reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes, continuing to stir often.
Strain mixture through cheesecloth or a nut milk bag. Press out as much liquid as possible. Discard soy pulp.
Add any optional sweetener, salt, vanilla as desired.
Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. Soy milk will keep for 3-4 days. Shake well before using.
Tips For Making Fresh Soy Milk
Here are some tips for making fresh soy milk at home:
Start with whole, raw soybeans. Avoid using soybean flour or soy protein powder, as these are more processed. Look for organic soybeans if possible.
Soak the soybeans in water overnight or for at least 8 hours. This helps them soften and split open to release the soy milk.
Drain and rinse the soybeans after soaking. Transfer them to a blender or food processor along with fresh water. Use a 3:1 ratio of water to soybeans.
Blend the soybeans and water on high speed for 1-2 minutes until very smooth and creamy. The longer you blend, the smoother the milk.
Pour the blended soy milk through a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer to separate the soy solids from the liquid. Press down on the solids to extract as much milk as possible.
Transfer the strained milk to a pot and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps improve the flavor.
Allow the milk to cool slightly, then pour into a container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Shake or stir the milk before using as the solids separate.
Consider adding flavorings like vanilla, cocoa powder, dates, or maple syrup. You can also add thickeners like tapioca starch if you want a thicker, creamier milk.
Use the leftover soy solids to make veggie burgers, add to baked goods, or sprinkle on cereals. They’re packed with protein and fiber.
Fresh Soy Milk vs. Other Plant Milks
How does fresh soy milk compare to popular plant-based milk alternatives like almond, coconut, and oat milk?
Nutrition comparison of 1 cup soy milk vs. other milks
Milk Type
Calories
Protein
Fat
Carbs
Calcium % DV
Vitamin D % DV
Fresh soy milk
100
7-10g
4.5g
8g
30%
25%
Almond milk
39
1g
2.5g
1g
45%
25%
Coconut milk
45
0g
4.5g
0g
10%
0%
Oat milk
120
3g
5g
16g
25%
25%
Soy milk advantages
More protein than other plant milks
Natural source of calcium and vitamin D
Lowest in sugar of plant milks
Free from common allergens like nuts, coconut
Potential soy milk disadvantages
Contains phytoestrogens that may affect hormones
GMO soy beans used in some brands
Higher in calories than low-fat dairy milk
Less creamy texture than coconut or oat milk
Overall, soy milk is one of the most nutritious and lowest calorie plant-based milks. Those without soy allergies can likely enjoy it regularly as part of a healthy diet.
Choosing the Best Fresh Soy Milk
Choosing the Best Fresh Soy Milk
Here are some tips for finding a high-quality fresh soy milk:
Check the ingredients:
Organic soybeans ensure no GMOs
Calcium carbonate and vitamin D for bone health
Natural sweeteners like dates or brown rice syrup
Consider the brand:
Small regional brands use quality ingredients
Non-GMO Project Verified ensures no GMOs
USDA Organic guarantees 95%+ organic
Understand the labels:
Refrigerated fresh soy milk is unpasteurized
Shelf-stable uses high heat pasteurization
Know where to buy:
Farmers markets sell local fresh soy milk
Health food stores like Whole Foods or Sprouts
Can make your own fresh soy milk at home
For maximum nutrition and flavor, choose organic, refrigerated soy milk from a quality brand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe for kids?
Yes, fresh soy milk is safe for most children over 1 year old. Always consult a pediatrician first, especially for infants under 1 who should not drink plant-based milks.
What’s the difference from soy protein isolate?
Soy milk contains the complete soybean, including protein, carbs, and healthy fats. Soy protein isolate extracts just the protein components. Soy milk offers more nutritional value.
Popular brands?
Top refrigerated brands of fresh soy milk include Silk, So Delicious, Pacific Foods, and WholeSoy & Co. Look for unsweetened organic varieties.
Is it healthier than cow’s milk?
Fresh soy milk delivers benefits cow’s milk can’t due to its phytochemicals and fiber. But cow’s milk provides vitamin B12 and more calcium. Overall, soy milk is the healthier choice if you tolerate it well.
Conclusion: Fresh soy milk
With its excellent nutrition, versatility, and benefits for heart and bone health, fresh soy milk is a smart choice over cow’s milk. Try incorporating organic varieties without added sugars into your daily routines. With its pleasant, creamy taste and multitude of uses, fresh soy milk can become your new go-to milk alternative.
· Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
· Don't overmix the batter, as this can make the blondies tough.
· Let the blondies cool completely before cutting to avoid them crumbling.
Ingredients
• Dry Soybeans: 1 cup (150 grams)
• Water: 4 cups (1 liter)
• Sweetener (optional): A pinch of salt, a few tablespoons of sugar, or a couple of dates (to taste)
• Flavoring (optional): 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, or a few drops of almond extract
Instructions
Soak the soybeans: Rinse 1 cup (150 grams) of dry soybeans and place them in a large bowl. Cover with 2-3 cups of water and soak for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight.
Drain and rinse: Discard the soaking water and rinse the soybeans thoroughly.
Blend: Add the soaked soybeans and 4 cups of fresh water to a high-powered blender. Blend for 2-3 minutes, until smooth and creamy.
Strain: Pour the blended mixture through a cheesecloth or nut milk bag into a large pot. Squeeze the pulp to extract as much liquid as possible. You can discard the pulp or use it for other recipes (see recipe notes).
Heat (optional): While optional, heating the soy milk helps improve flavor and shelf life. Heat the strained soy milk over medium heat, stirring constantly, until simmering. Do not let it boil. Alternatively, you can use a low simmer for 10-15 minutes.
Sweeten and flavor (optional): Once heated (or after simmering), remove the pot from heat. If desired, add a pinch of salt, a few tablespoons of sugar, or a couple of dates for sweetness. You can also add flavorings like vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, or almond extract to taste.
Cool and store: Let the soy milk cool slightly before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Nutrition Facts
Fresh Soy Milk
Serves: 4 persons
Amount Per Serving:
Calories
100
% Daily Value*
Total Fat4
6.2%
Saturated Fat 11
55%
Trans Fat 0
Cholesterol0
0
Sodium20mg
0.8%
Total Carbohydrate4
1.3%
Dietary Fiber 1
4%
Sugars 2
Protein8
Vitamin A 0
Vitamin C 0
Calcium 400mg
Iron 3mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Executive Chef Marco Velasquez brings his unique, elevated Mexican cuisine to Cheen Huaye. A native of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, Marco honed his skills in some of South Florida’s finest restaurants before opening his own restaurant.
At Cheen Huaye, you’ll experience authentic Yucatecan dishes made from fresh ingredients, to order. Our food has been praised by publications like the Miami New Times and continues to receive rave reviews from diners all over. So if you’re looking for a different take on Mexican food – one that’s still familiar yet exciting – come visit us at Cheen Huaye!