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A helpful guide to cooking with soy milk.

07.12.24

A common question we get is, can you cook with soy milk? Soy milk has become a kitchen staple for many households. It’s enjoyed by people embracing a vegan or plant-based lifestyle and is a good option for anyone interested in trying out different dairy-free milk alternatives

Its mild taste and adaptability make soy milk a great option for both savory and sweet dishes. It’s even versatile enough to handle different cooking methods and temperatures, making it a reliable choice for culinary uses. 

No matter what kind of dish you’re preparing, cooking with soy milk can be a great way to add another plant-based ingredient to your repertoire.

Can you cook with soy milk?

The simple answer is, yes. You can, indeed, cook and use soy milk in a wide variety of recipes. Because of its balanced flavor, soy milk is one of the most versatile alternatives to dairy milk. 

Soy milk does a great job of not overpowering other ingredients. Available in unsweetened versions, soy milk can be incorporated into a range of dishes, from rich, spiced curries to delicate pastries.

The culinary flexibility of soy milk.

Soy milk’s adaptability in cooking is attributed to its composition, which includes proteins that can withstand higher temperatures without separating. Many other plant-based milks can curdle when heated. Soy milk is perfect for heating and for simmering in dishes like soups and sauces.

Practical tips for using soy milk in your cooking.

Temperature control.

Though soy milk is less prone to curdling at high temperatures than other plant-based milks, it’s still important to keep an eye on your temp. Avoid adding soy milk directly to boiling mixtures. Instead, gently warm the soy milk first, then add gradually to your dish. This technique helps maintain texture and prevents separation.

Using sweetened vs. unsweetened soy milk.

The choice between adding sweetened or unsweetened soy milk can impact your recipe significantly. For savory dishes, unsweetened soy milk is recommended. It offers creaminess without introducing sweetness that might clash with the savory flavors. 

On the other hand, sweetened soy milk can elevate desserts and sweet drinks by enhancing their flavors.

Ready to try cooking with soy milk? Give these recipes a try.

Vegan Gumbo

For a dish rich in meaty flavors without the need for actual meat, consider this plant-based gumbo. The added Cajun seasoning delivers a delightful duo of depth and smokiness. The gumbo is thickened with a roux made from vegan butter and flour. Pacific Foods Organic Unsweetened Soy Milk enhances the creaminess without using dairy.

Kidney beans and vegan kielbasa sausage give this gumbo a rich flavor. Enjoy this dish over long-grain white rice to contrast the spicy sauce. 

View the full recipe: Vegan Gumbo

Dairy-Free Ranch Dressing

Put a spin on the classic ranch dressing with this delicious, dairy-free homemade version. Made with our Pacific Foods Organic Unsweetened Soy Milk, it’s a delicious dressing that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Herbs like chives and parsley pair well with powdered paprika and a touch of white wine vinegar. Adding an egg helps emulsify the olive oil with the soy beverage, resulting in a velvety consistency that rivals any store-bought option. When blended together, this savory mixture delivers a creamy texture and robust flavors.

It also adds a wholesome homemade element to your meals with minimal effort. Remember to store it in the fridge, so you can enjoy your dairy-free ranch dressing all week long. 

View the full recipe: Dairy-Free Ranch Dressing

Paleo Grilled Chicken and Vegetable Kabobs with Creamy Avocado Sauce

This recipe features colorful vegetables like red, orange and yellow bell peppers, along with generous pieces of chicken breast. Everything is marinated in a flavorful mix of avocado oil, lime juice, oregano, salt and pepper.

As the kabobs cook to perfection, blend together a velvety avocado sauce made with Pacific Foods Organic Unsweetened Soy Milk. This creamy sauce provides a tang that complements the chicken and vegetables.

Simple to prepare and delightful to eat, these kabobs are ideal for a weeknight dinner or a weekend get-together with friends.

View the full recipe: Paleo Grilled Chicken and Vegetable Kabobs with Creamy Avocado Sauce

Peach Pitaya Tahini Smoothie AKA The Endless Summer Smoothie

Indulge in the sweetness of this peach pitaya smoothie, known affectionately as The Endless Summer Smoothie. This tasty smoothie is ideal for a nourishing breakfast or a lively midday snack. 

This recipe combines beautifully sliced Thai coconut and banana with velvety, unsweetened plant-based yogurt. To add even more creaminess without using dairy, include Pacific Foods Organic Unsweetened Soy Milk. Sweetened naturally with dates, this smoothie appeals to all taste buds.

For an especially visually stunning smoothie, use pitaya powder. This creates a striking natural pink color that enhances both the beauty and taste of this smoothie. 

You can even create a gradient effect. Portion out your smoothie and mix in different amounts of powder. Then, layer the pinks from dark to light for an eye-catching ombre.

View the full recipe: Peach Pitaya Tahini Smoothie AKA The Endless Summer Smoothie

Elevate your cooking today.

Never again will you have to ask, “Can you cook with soy milk?” The versatility of soy milk shines through in its ability to complement both savory and sweet dishes. It doesn’t matter if you’re a professional cook or a beginner. Incorporating soy milk into your cooking routine can introduce new ideas to enhance both taste and texture. 

Feel free to try out these recipes or put your spin on others by incorporating soy milk. You can also find more helpful recipes by visiting our recipe section.