How to Make Soy Milk (Indian Style) (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Soy Milk (Indian Style) is a beloved beverage in Singapore, renowned for its smooth, creamy texture and subtle nutty notes. Popular in many local kopitiams and hawker centres, this drink showcases the multicultural fusion that defines Singapore’s food scene. Indian-style soy milk is typically infused with cardamom and a hint of saffron, giving it a unique aroma and flavor that stands out from the usual Chinese-style soy drinks. Singapore’s vibrant hawker culture has long celebrated the coming together of different ethnic influences. The Indian-style soy milk offers a refreshing, plant-based alternative for those seeking a dairy-free beverage, and it’s often enjoyed chilled or warm, depending on the weather. Its gentle sweetness and fragrant spices make it a comforting and nutritious choice for both young and old. As a vegetarian-friendly drink, it fits perfectly into Singapore’s modern health-conscious lifestyle, providing a satisfying option for anyone looking to reduce their intake of dairy or processed sugars.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Rinse the soaked soybeans thoroughly and drain
Rinse the soaked soybeans thoroughly and drain. Remove any skins that float off for a smoother texture.
Step 2 · Blend the soybeans with 2 cups of filtered water until completely s...
Blend the soybeans with 2 cups of filtered water until completely smooth.
Step 3 · Strain the blended mixture using a muslin cloth or nut milk bag ove...
Strain the blended mixture using a muslin cloth or nut milk bag over a large bowl. Squeeze out as much soy milk as possible.
Step 4 · Pour the strained soy milk into a pot
Pour the strained soy milk into a pot. Add remaining 1 cup of water, cardamom pods, saffron, pandan leaf, and salt. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Step 5 · Once it begins to simmer
Once it begins to simmer, lower the heat and cook for another 7-10 minutes. Add rock sugar (or gula melaka) and vanilla essence, stirring until dissolved.
Step 6 · Remove the pot from heat
Remove the pot from heat. Discard the cardamom, pandan, and saffron. Let cool slightly if serving chilled, or pour directly into glasses for a warm version.
Why this recipe is healthy
This soy milk recipe is a healthy choice because it replaces dairy with soy, reducing saturated fat and calories. Home preparation means you control the amount of sweetener and avoid preservatives found in store-bought drinks. The spices provide extra antioxidants while pandan adds fragrance without extra calories. It’s a fiber-rich, plant-based beverage, making it a smart option for weight loss, diabetes management, and overall wellness.
A note on tradition
Soy Milk (Indian Style) reflects Singapore’s multicultural hawker culture, where Chinese, Malay, and Indian culinary traditions blend seamlessly. Often found at Little India's food stalls or select kopitiams, this drink is a testament to the innovative fusion unique to Singapore. Traditionally enjoyed as a breakfast beverage or a light afternoon refreshment, it is especially popular during festive periods when families gather to break fast or celebrate the weekend. The use of local pandan and spices illustrates Singapore’s creative approach to classic drinks.