World Tofu Day
By Sharon Schweitzer
World Tofu Day is annually observed on July 26th, in honor of tofu, a plant-based alternative to meat that is manufactured from soybeans. Tofu has seen a surge in popularity as more people switch to a plant-based diet. For vegans and vegetarians, it is particularly appreciated and enjoyed because they can avoid eating meat, but still get some much-needed protein from it. Even if you are not a vegetarian, but you’re curious about tofu, today is a good day to give it a try.
The Eastern Asian diet, which relies heavily on tofu, is a staple in many countries around the world. As important as dairy products like milk and cheese are to regular eaters, tofu is an indispensable part of every vegetarian diet. It may be newer in the West, but tofu dates back to 900 A.D. in Japan, where it is most popular.
Tofu, or bean curd in English, has several different names in the Chinese and Japanese languages. The term ‘tofu’ wasn’t coined until the 1800s when English translations of cookbooks began to appear. In the 1970s, as the meat replacement gained widespread acceptance in the West, cookbooks began to use ‘tofu’ as an official designation. People who prefer to adopt a vegetarian or vegan diet have grown to rely on tofu. It has become a classic meal and a nutritious alternative for them.
In 2014, World Tofu Day was created by the Society for the Protection of Animals (SPA) Canada. SPA Canada is an animal rights protection group that seeks to end animal cruelty and encourage humans to practice plant-based diets.
Each Japanese province has its distinct method of producing tofu, reflected in the wide range of ways it is consumed. When soybean production is executed well, it is enjoyed by a large number of people. Tofu is one of the most versatile and nutritious foods available worldwide. National Tofu Day seeks to highlight the numerous ways tofu has influenced people around the world while giving them the required nutrients.
Sweet or savory, tofu lends itself beautifully to any dish. You can cook it in different ways to change its texture. It can transform from soft and silken smooth to crunchy depending on the hand that cooks it. You can grill, bake, or stir-fry tofu. The neutral (some might say bland) taste works well with multiple foods. Think of all the flavor combinations you could try out in the kitchen.
Here are top 7 Global Tofu Recipes To Celebrate World Tofu Day:
- Miso Tofu Udon or Miso Tofu Ramen – Japan/East Asia
- Indian Spiced Tofu with Saffron Rice – India-South Asia
- Moroccan Couscous Salad – Morocco/Mediterranean
- Air Fryer Tofu Cubes – International
- Pumpkin Pie Bars – North America
- Creamy Vegan Quiche– Europe
- Thai Curry Nuggets and Kabocha Squash Autumn Stew – Japan/Thailand
Photo by www.facebook.com/GalenhealthcareAesthetics
Sharon Schweitzer JD, is a diversity and inclusion consultant, cross-cultural trainer, etiquette expert, and the founder of Access to Culture. In addition to her accreditation in intercultural management from the HOFSTEDE Centre, she is an attorney and mediator. Sharon served as a Chinese Ceremonial Dining Etiquette Specialist in the documentary series Confucius was a Foodie, on Nat Geo People. Her Amazon #1 Best Selling book in International Business, Access to Asia: Your Multicultural Business Guide, won a coveted Kirkus Star, and was named to Kirkus Reviews’ Best Books. She’s a winner of numerous awards, including the British Airways International Trade Award at the Greater Austin Business Awards.
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