This Creamy Marry Me Tofu is a tasty dish that brings together soft tofu with a rich, creamy sauce. It’s simple to make and packed with flavor that will impress everyone!
I love how this dish looks fancy but is super easy to whip up! Perfect for date night or just a cozy dinner. Trust me, you’ll be saying “marry me” after your first bite! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tofu: Firm or extra-firm tofu is best for this recipe as it holds its shape well. If you’re avoiding soy, consider using tempeh or seitan as alternatives. Keep in mind that tempeh has a nuttier flavor and can change the dish’s profile.
Olive Oil: While I love olive oil for its flavor, any neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil works too. If you’re looking for something with a bit more flavor, avocado oil is a great option.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They provide a wonderful tangy flavor. If you can’t find them, try using fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers instead, though they will change the dish’s overall taste and texture.
Coconut Cream: This is what makes the dish creamy and luscious. If you prefer a dairy option, heavy cream is fine, but for a lighter approach, you can use a mix of unsweetened almond milk and cornstarch to thicken.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds a fresh touch at the end. If you don’t have it, thyme or parsley can work as a substitute, but the flavor will differ. Dried herbs are not recommended as they don’t pack the same punch.
How Do You Get Tofu Golden and Crispy?
Getting perfect golden-brown tofu is key to adding texture to your dish. Start by pressing the tofu properly. This removes excess moisture, allowing it to brown better.
- Wrap the tofu in clean kitchen towels and place a heavy object on top for 15-20 minutes.
- Cut the tofu into even cubes to ensure consistent cooking.
- Heat the skillet well before adding the oil and tofu; this helps create a nice sear.
- Let the tofu cook undisturbed for a few minutes before flipping. This helps form a golden crust.
These steps will help your tofu turn out perfectly every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Creamy Marry Me Tofu
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tofu:
- 14 oz (400g) firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup coconut cream (or heavy cream for non-vegan option)
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Optional Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for extra depth)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes for cooking. So, you’ll have a delicious dish ready in about 40 minutes total! Perfect for a quick and delightful dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Pressing the Tofu:
Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess water. Wrap it in clean kitchen towels and place a heavy object on top for about 15-20 minutes. This helps the tofu absorb flavors and become crispy when cooked.
2. Cube the Tofu:
Once the tofu is pressed, cut it into bite-sized cubes. This will make it easy to cook and serve later.
3. Cooking the Tofu:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the tofu cubes. Cook until they are golden brown on all sides, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Remember to turn them gently to avoid breaking the cubes. Once done, remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Making the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 1-2 minutes while stirring occasionally.
5. Creating the Creamy Base:
Pour in the coconut cream and vegetable broth, stirring well to combine everything. Next, add the red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and any optional ingredients like nutritional yeast or smoked paprika for extra flavor. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 4-5 minutes while stirring occasionally until it thickens up a bit.
6. Combining Tofu and Sauce:
Return the cooked tofu cubes to the skillet, gently stirring to coat them in the creamy sauce. Warm everything through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Finishing Touches:
Just before removing from heat, stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor. Serve hot, garnished with extra basil leaves if desired.
This creamy Marry Me Tofu dish is fantastic served over rice, pasta, or with some crusty bread to soak up the sauce. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Creamy Marry Me Tofu
Can I Use Silken Tofu Instead of Firm Tofu?
While firm or extra-firm tofu is recommended for this recipe because it holds its shape when cooked, you can use silken tofu if you’re looking for a creamier texture. Just be gentle when cooking as silken tofu is more delicate and can break apart easily.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the tofu from getting soggy, it’s best to store the sauce separately if possible. When reheating, do it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables can enhance flavor and nutrition. Good options include spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just sauté them in the skillet before adding the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes for the best results.
What Can I Substitute for Coconut Cream?
If you’re not a fan of coconut cream, you can use heavy cream or a cashew cream for a dairy-free option. If you’re looking for a lighter choice, blending unsweetened almond milk with a bit of cornstarch can also work as a substitute.
