How Soybeans Make Their Way to Your Fall Menu

Fall is the season for pumpkin spice and harvest. Soybeans play a major role in the delicious dishes that make their way to our tables. Grown in South Dakota, soybeans make their way from the farm to your fork through a long process. This process involves careful cultivation, harvesting, processing, and distribution.

Cultivation and Harvest 

Soybean farming begins in the spring when farmers plant the seeds. These plants grow in the fields of South Dakota, soaking up sunlight and nutrients. As the summer progresses, the soybean plants mature, producing pods filled with beans. Once the beans have reached their peak ripeness, farmers carefully harvest them using combines.

Processing 

After harvest, the soybeans are transported to processing facilities. Here, the beans are cleaned, dried, and shelled. The resulting soybean meal is a valuable source of protein for livestock feed. They extract and refine the remaining soybean oil. Manufacturers use this in various products, including cooking oil, biodiesel, and cosmetics.

Distribution and Consumption 

Soybean oil and products made from soybean meal are then distributed to food manufacturers, restaurants, and grocery stores. These businesses use soybeans in a wide range of products, from tofu, tempeh, soy sauce, and edamame. In the fall, soybeans are especially popular in hearty dishes like our crockpot turkey and edamame chili, soups, and stir-fries.

Fall Recipes

Add some of our favorite fall recipes to your dinner table and share with loved ones.

Macaroni and Cheese Casserole: This classic comfort food is sure to warm you up on a chilly fall day. Soybeans are a key ingredient in many dairy alternatives, and soy milk can be used to create a creamy and delicious cheese sauce.

Pumpkin Banana Bread: This moist and flavorful bread is a perfect way to enjoy the taste of fall. Soybeans are a key ingredient in many bakery products, as soybean oil is a versatile cooking oil that can be used in place of butter or other fats.

Cinnamon Streusel Swirled Sweet Potato Casserole: This sweet casserole is a delicious side dish for any fall meal. Sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamins and minerals, and they pair perfectly with the rich flavor of soybean oil.

The Farm-to-Table Movement

The farm-to-table movement emphasizes the importance of supporting local agriculture and consuming fresh, high-quality food. By choosing soybean-based products, you help create a sustainable food system and enjoy the tasty flavors of fall.

Soybeans are a nutritious ingredient that plays a vital role in our diets. From the fields of South Dakota to your kitchen table, soybeans provide a tasty and eco-friendly way to enjoy your favorite fall flavors.

Learn more about the benefits of adding soybeans to your table this fall.