Soy Culinary Uses explores the soybean's profound influence on East Asian cuisine and culture. From its ancient origins in China, the soybean has been transformed into essential foods like tofu, miso, and soy sauce, each with unique culinary uses. These transformations aren't just about food; they reflect centuries of innovation, cultural adaptation, and the ingenious harnessing of the soybean's nutritional potential.
The book highlights how fermentation techniques, passed down through generations, unlock flavors and textures that define East Asian culinary identity. The book journeys through the historical cultivation of the soybean across China, Japan, and Korea, detailing the science behind its metamorphosis into various foods, and culminating in an examination of its cultural place in East Asian societies. Detailed descriptions of traditional preparation methods are included. It emphasizes the versatility of the soybean and its crucial role in traditional diets, religious practices, and social customs.
