Tofu originated in ancient China about 2,000 years ago, during the Han Dynasty, and the oldest reference of its production comes from a mural, which was painted between 25 and 220 A.D. Although many people enjoy this soy product in their favorite dishes, some are unfamiliar with the details of this delicious ingredient. From its origins to its nutritional value, this unassuming vegan protein is as interesting as it is tasty.

What You May Not Know About Tofu

1. Made Similarly to Cheese

Cheese is made when milk ages and curdles. Similarly, tofu-makers add coagulants to soy milk to separate the solids from the liquids. The solids are known as bean curds, and they’re the same type of curd that is produced during cheese-making. These solids are removed from the mixture and pressed, forming the ingredient’s signature, rectangular shape. Like cheese, age affects the taste, firmness, and texture, and a block of tofu can be aged for varying amounts of time.

2. Discovered by Accident

Long ago, a Chinese cook might have tried to season pureed soybean soup with seawater. Since salt helps coagulate soy milk, tofu might have been accidentally created when they were trying to add flavor to a meal. The production process has since been refined, and today, tofu is made in factories by machines and eaten in restaurants around the world.

3. Provides Health Benefits

Made from soybeans, which are the only vegetable that’s considered a complete protein, tofu is a suitable meat substitute. Like animal protein, tofu contains all eight essential amino acids, which maintain your body’s neurotransmitters and hormone levels. This soy product is also low in fat and high in essential nutrients, like protein, iron, calcium, and magnesium.

If you want to try this delicious, healthy food, head to Seoul Tofu House in Honolulu, HI. This locally owned eatery specializes in authentic Korean cuisine at affordable prices and gives generous servings of tofu in their soondubu. They also offer tofu stews that can be topped with spices and fresh vegetables, like mushrooms and green onions. View their menu online, or call (808) 376-0018 to make a reservation. Connect with the team on Facebook for the latest news and updates, or visit them on Yelp to read customer reviews.