How to Grill Soy Products

As we hit the summer months, there will be more chances to throw BBQ parties in our backyards. Most BBQ parties are not catered with plant-based diets in mind. Nine times out of ten, cookouts are meat fests with very little veggie options! But by using high quality, dehydrated soy protein, we can ensure that we host the best cookouts this summer. Why is this? Well, as we know, most soy faux meat products we find in the supermarkets are heavily processed; the soy beans transform into soy meat by protein isolation, fiber removal, and then finally the formation of the “curd.” And, all of the processing gives soy a tendency to turn crumbly on the grill. Using quality soy will not only make grilling easier, but it will benefit our health and taste so much better too! Follow these steps to achieve mouth-watering food this summer:

1. Buy Dehydrated, Non-GMO Soy Protein

Dehydrated soy is the healthiest you can buy, since it is slowly cooked and dried at a low temperature. This retains the soy’s natural health-boosting ingredients. As soy is the most genetically engineered crop in the United States, always look for non-GMO soy protein that is produced without any pesticides or preservatives. Organic is best!

2. Start Preparation Two to Three Hours Before You Start Grilling

The secret tip for a perfect cookout is to begin food preparation early; planning ahead will allow the soy to absorb those delicious flavors in your seasoning and ensure that you cook everything perfectly without the need to rush.

3. Soak for 10 Minutes

For optimum rehydration of soy products, use approximately the same amount of hot water to dehydrated soy protein and soak for 10 minutes or until “plump.” Soaking for 10 minutes will allow for enough moisture to be added to the soy without it crumbling on the grill or turning all mushy.

4. Choose a Seasoning

The easiest way to ramp up any dish is by seasoning it well. Simply add Himalayan salt and pepper, or, add your favorite herbs, spices, and typical BBQ flavors! Be careful when using liquids in your marinade, as we need to treat soy products like cooking potatoes or rice. Too much liquid will weaken the cell structure, making your BBQ soy all mushy – and that’s not what we want! Try this easy-to-make fajita seasoning or our South Indian seasoning; you could make a bigger batch and store in a jar so you always have tasty spice to funk up your food in the future.

5. Marinate, Marinate, Marinate!

Use tongs to roll your soy in your chosen marinade. If your marinade does not contain any liquids, then rub the seasoning onto the surface on your soy and leave to absorb all of the flavors for one to two hours.

6. Roll the Soy Into Patties or Sausages

Now that your soy is full of flavor, roll your soy into patties or sausages to suit your meal. Apply pressure when rolling to ensure that your soy holds together.

7. Grill for Five Minutes on Each Side 

As soy is much lower in fat than meat-based burgers, they have a tendency to stick to your grill. Before grilling, apply oil with a brush to prevent the soy from crumbling apart. On a low to medium heat, grill for around 5 minutes on each side, or until your BBQ soy looks browned and crispy!

Image source: Grilled Buffalo Tofu Po’ Boy with Apple Slaw