This creamy Marry Me Tofu is a match made in food heaven! It’s smooth, rich, and super easy to whip up, making it perfect for any day or special occasion.
Honestly, this dish has convinced many of my friends to consider tofu seriously. It’s delicious served over rice or just on its own. Once you taste it, you’ll be asking for seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tofu: Extra-firm tofu is best for this dish due to its ability to hold shape when cooked. If you’re avoiding soy, try using seitan or tempeh as an alternative. Both can add a similar texture.
Oil: Olive oil is my go-to, but you can use any cooking oil. If you’re looking for a bit of flavor, coconut oil works well too. Just be aware that it will add a subtle coconut taste.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They add sweetness and texture. If unavailable, chopped roasted red peppers or fresh tomatoes can create a different but lovely flavor. Feel free to adjust based on what’s in your pantry!
Coconut Milk vs. Heavy Cream: Coconut milk provides a rich, creamy texture with a hint of sweetness. If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, this is a great choice! For those who prefer dairy, heavy cream will make the dish ultra-rich.
How Do I Make Sure My Tofu is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking tofu can be tricky, but there are a couple of important steps to get it right. The first step is to really press it well to remove excess moisture. This improves the texture and helps it absorb flavors.
- Use a tofu press or wrap tofu in a clean dish towel, placing a heavy object on top to drain for at least 15 minutes.
- When cooking, make sure your oil is hot before adding the tofu. This prevents sticking and creates a lovely golden crust.
Once it’s nicely browned, you can play around with flavors in your sauce to soak into the tofu. Enjoy the process!
How to Make Creamy Marry Me Tofu
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tofu:
- 400g extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or any cooking oil
For the Sauce:
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup coconut milk or heavy cream (for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth or water
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried basil and oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves, sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend time browning the tofu, making the tasty sauce, and bringing it all together for a delightful meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tofu:
First, press the tofu to remove excess water. This will make it firmer and allow it to absorb all the yummy flavors. Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
2. Brown the Tofu:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the tofu cubes. Cook them until they’re golden brown on all sides, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Once done, remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant. Next, toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Pour in the coconut milk or heavy cream along with the vegetable broth. Stir everything well to combine and heat through.
5. Add Seasonings:
Sprinkle in the red chili flakes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and the flavors to shine.
6. Combine Tofu and Sauce:
Now it’s time to return the cooked tofu to the skillet! Gently stir to coat it evenly with that creamy sauce. Let it cook together for another 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors and heat everything through.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s done, garnish your dish with fresh sliced basil leaves for an extra pop of flavor and color. Serve hot over rice, pasta, or with some crusty bread for a satisfying meal!
Enjoy your creamy, flavorful Marry Me Tofu! It’s a dish that’s sure to impress!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Firm Tofu Instead of Extra-Firm?
While extra-firm tofu holds its shape better and gives a nicer texture, you can use firm tofu if that’s what you have. Just be aware it may break apart more easily, so handle it gently during cooking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you’re a fan of heat, feel free to increase the amount of red chili flakes! You can also add a dash of hot sauce or even some diced jalapeños for an extra kick in the sauce. Adjust to taste as you cook!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently on the stove or microwave until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water or coconut milk to restore creaminess!
What Can I Serve This With Besides Rice or Pasta?
This creamy Marry Me Tofu pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a quinoa salad, or even stuffed inside a wrap for a delicious meal on the go. Let your creativity shine!
