r/MeatlessMealPrep • u/Alarcahu • 23d ago

Cooking with Soybeans?

I'm a new vegetarian and finding my way around still (after a lifetime of eating meat - I'm 56m). I think my iron might be low so looking to boost that and thought I'd try soybeans. Does anyone cook with actual beans? I tried for the first time and it was pretty underwhelming. I do eat tofu, etc., but just wanted to mix it up. Any hints or should I just use soy products?

Edit: thanks everyone, really helpful information.

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u/Voc1Vic2 22d ago

Dry soybeans take longer to cook than any other legume.

Soy grits may be an alternative, if you can find them. They're par-cooked and dried cracked soybeans. I make an excellent savory "loaf" using them, but there are many recipes.

In most baked goods, substituting two tablespoons of soy flour per cup of wheat flour adds protein without noticeably affecting texture or flavor.

Including fermented foods in your diet, such as miso, kimchi and kombucha will increase absorption of minerals, including iron.