This Creamy Marry Me Tofu dish is a warm and cozy meal that melts in your mouth! With tender tofu and a rich, creamy sauce, it’s sure to impress anyone at your dinner table.
You might find yourself saying, “I do” after just one bite! I love serving this with rice or noodles for a complete meal that feels like a hug on a plate. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tofu: Firm or extra firm tofu works best for this recipe. If you’re in a pinch, you could also use tempeh for a nutty flavor. Just make sure to press it well, so it can soak up the sauce!
Sun-dried tomatoes: These add great flavor. You can substitute them with roasted red peppers or even fresh cherry tomatoes if you prefer a lighter taste. Just sauté them a bit longer to develop their flavor.
Heavy cream: For a creamy result, I recommend full-fat coconut milk as a vegan option. If you want a lower-calorie alternative, you can use light cream or cashew cream, but it may be less rich.
Spices: The red chili flakes add a nice kick, but you can omit them for a milder dish. Use Italian seasoning if you don’t have individual herbs on hand; it works well to create that Italian flavor.
How Do I Get My Tofu Extra Crispy?
Pressing tofu properly is key to achieving a crispy texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and place a heavy object on top, like a cast iron skillet.
- Let it sit for 15-20 minutes. The excess water will be released, allowing the tofu to soak up the sauce later better.
After pressing, heat the olive oil until it shimmers before adding the tofu. Cook until golden on all sides, which should take about 2-3 minutes per side. Don’t rush—this will help you achieve that nice crispy texture.
What’s the Best Way to Make a Creamy Sauce?
To make the sauce delightfully creamy, keep these tips in mind:
- Start with sautéing the garlic in oil until fragrant, then add sun-dried tomatoes.
- When adding the cream (or coconut milk), stir constantly to incorporate it well with the oil.
- Let the sauce simmer gently for a few minutes to thicken. This step enhances the flavors!
Coating the tofu in this creamy mixture right before serving ensures every bite is bursting with flavor and richness.
Enjoy crafting your Creamy Marry Me Tofu! It’s a cozy dish that even non-vegans will love.
Creamy Marry Me Tofu – Easy Cozy Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tofu:
- 14 oz (400 g) firm or extra firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably oil-packed)
- 1 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk (for vegan option)
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried basil and oregano mix
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves, sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 10-15 minutes of cooking. In total, you’ll need about 30 minutes to have this cozy dinner ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Press the Tofu:
Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess water. Wrap it in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object (like a cast iron skillet) on top for 15-20 minutes. After the time is up, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
2. Cook the Tofu:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the cubed tofu. Cook until all sides are golden brown, which should take about 2-3 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the tofu from the pan and set it aside.
3. Make the Flavorful Base:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing their flavors to blend.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) along with the vegetable broth, stirring to combine everything. This is where the magic happens!
6. Season the Sauce:
Stir in the red chili flakes and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
7. Combine Tofu and Sauce:
Return the cooked tofu to the skillet, ensuring it gets well-coated in the creamy sauce. Let it heat through for about 2-3 more minutes.
8. Final Touches:
Season the dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed, making sure it’s just right for your palate!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat, and sprinkle the freshly sliced basil leaves on top for a fresh touch. Serve the creamy Marry Me Tofu warm, paired with rice, pasta, or crusty bread for a delightful cozy dinner experience.
Enjoy your delicious and creamy Marry Me Tofu! It’s sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Creamy Marry Me Tofu
Can I Use Silken Tofu Instead of Firm Tofu?
While you can use silken tofu, it may not hold its shape as well as firm or extra firm tofu. If you prefer the smooth texture, be prepared for a slightly different presentation! For best flavor and texture, stick with firm or extra firm tofu.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, ensure that you use gluten-free vegetable broth and check that your sun-dried tomatoes do not contain any gluten-containing preservatives. Most of the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you’re good to go!
Can I Store Leftovers? How Long Do They Last?
Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to maintain the creamy consistency.
Can I Customize the Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just sauté them with the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to infuse their flavors into the sauce. This is a great way to get creative!
