Checking out the menu at a local Japanese restaurant may leave you wondering what miso is. It’s actually something out of fermented soybeans. The taste is a merry mix of salty and tangy, and it isn’t really meant to be eaten on its own. This nutritious product is the star ingredient of the classic Japanese miso soup that is loved by many all over the planet.
Miso is really good for your health due to the fact that it’s from soybeans. The fermentation soybeans need to go through to become this highly popular cooking ingredient and seasoning only makes miso even more beneficial.
These days, you can find miso at many supermarkets and health food shops being sold in small plastic tubs. Asian grocery stores may sell miso in really large plastic containers. Generally speaking, miso that’s darker in has stronger taste. When shopping, you may use the color as a guide which range anywhere from, white yellow to brown.
It’s also important to note that some varieties of miso may be made of rice and barley. Although they vary slightly in taste and color, they may actually be used interchangeably when coming up with miso-containing goodies.
What’s so great about miso is you can incorporate it in your everyday diet because it can be used for making phenomenal soups, vegetable dishes, and even sauces and marinades. Sitting in front of your computer and logging on the internet allow you to see all sorts of easy-to-follow miso recipes. Whether you are a pro in the kitchen or a beginner-level cook, you will surely have a grand time whipping up healthy and delectable treats containing miso.
Here are some of the most amazing reasons why it’s in fact a wonderful idea to add more miso into your life:
Miso Contains Antioxidants
Everyone knows how beneficial antioxidants are. They are molecules that neutralize excess free radicals in the body, saving your cells from being damaged. There are so many food sources of antioxidants, and one of them is miso due to the fermentation process it needed to go through to become what it is.
Antioxidants can offer a lot of perks. They are capable of boosting the immune system, thus reducing your risk of ending up with an illness or condition stemming from the invasion of microbes. Antioxidants also ward off inflammation which is associated with so many health issues. They are also capable of slowing down the aging process internally and externally.
Miso Supplies Your Gut with Good Bacteria
Because miso is fermented, it is a great source of health-friendly bacteria just like yogurt, kimchi, sauerkraut and the rest of the gang. Consuming miso on a regular basis helps maintain optimum environment in your gut.
It’s important to regularly consume miso and other food products that contain good bacteria. This helps keep in check the population of bad bacteria residing in your intestines. Otherwise, it’s not unlikely for you to experience all sorts of digestive problems. The uncontrolled multiplication of bacteria may also have a negative impact on your immune system.
Miso is Loaded with Amino Acids
Vegetarians most especially can benefit from including miso in the diet because it has impressive amounts of amino acids — the building blocks of protein. This doesn’t come as a surprise because miso is out of protein-rich soybeans.
We all know that protein is important for the repair, building and maintaining muscles. But did you know that protein does so many other important things? Protein is vital for healthy skin, hair and bones. It’s also something necessary for the proper production of enzymes and hormones. Your immune system relies on protein too.
Trying to lose some weight? Simply add miso into your daily diet. Anything that has miso in it can make you feel satiated quickly and for a longer period of time, thanks to the loads of protein it contains.
