This Creamy Marry Me Tofu is the perfect comfort food! It’s a simple dish made with soft tofu and a rich, dreamy sauce that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
If you think this dish might win someone’s heart, you’re probably right! I love serving it over rice for a complete meal that’s cozy and oh-so-delicious. Who wouldn’t want to marry this dish? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tofu: Firm or extra firm tofu works best here because it holds its shape while cooking. If you need a soy-free option, you could try using seitan or chickpeas instead for protein, but the texture will be quite different.
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream makes the sauce rich, you can use full-fat coconut milk as a fantastic vegan substitute. It gives a deliciously creamy texture with a hint of coconut flavor.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a tangy, sweet flavor to the dish. If you don’t have them, you could use fresh tomatoes, just sauté them until they soften and sweeten. Dried tomatoes in oil are also a great choice.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is ideal for this recipe, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work as a substitute. Use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove needed.
How Do I Get My Tofu Perfectly Golden?
Getting your tofu golden and crispy adds fantastic texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Always press your tofu to remove excess water. This prevents it from steaming and ensures it browns nicely.
- Heat your olive oil over medium heat before adding tofu. This way, the tofu sizzles as soon as it touches the pan.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can trap steam and prevent browning. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Let the tofu cook undisturbed for a bit before flipping. This helps to form a nice golden crust.
Golden tofu enhances the overall flavor and makes the dish even more delightful! Enjoy cooking your Creamy Marry Me Tofu! 🍽️
Creamy Marry Me Tofu – Easy Comfort Meal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 14 oz (400g) firm or extra firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk (for vegan option)
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth or water
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, sliced (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting meal takes about 10 minutes for prep and 15-20 minutes for cooking, so you’re looking at around 25-30 minutes total. It’s quick to whip up, and the flavors are worth every second!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tofu:
Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess water. Wrap it in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for about 15 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
2. Sauté the Tofu:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the tofu cubes, spacing them out to ensure they cook evenly. Sauté until they turn golden brown on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Cook the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently until it becomes fragrant. Make sure not to let it burn!
4. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and stir them in with the garlic for a minute.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and vegetable broth, stirring well to combine. This is where the magic happens—turning everything into a luscious creamy sauce!
6. Season the Sauce:
Add the red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
7. Simmer the Sauce:
Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. It should be creamy and inviting!
8. Combine Tofu and Sauce:
Return the sautéed tofu to the skillet, stirring gently to ensure the tofu is coated in the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm through.
9. Add Nutritional Yeast (Optional):
If desired, sprinkle nutritional yeast over the dish and mix in for a cheesy flavor boost.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy this creamy delight over cooked rice, pasta, or with crusty bread for a perfect comfort meal!
This dish is creamy, rich, and delightfully spicy with the sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes balancing perfectly with the smooth sauce and tender tofu. Enjoy your comforting “Marry Me” meal! 💖🍴
FAQ for Creamy Marry Me Tofu
Can I Use Frozen Tofu?
Absolutely! Freezing tofu gives it a unique texture that can enhance this dish. Just make sure to thaw it completely, press out the excess water, and then cube it before cooking. Note that frozen tofu may absorb sauce even better!
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you need a different oil, avocado oil or coconut oil can be great alternatives as they also withstand high heat. For added flavor, try using sesame oil, but add it near the end of cooking to retain its aroma.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Creamy Marry Me Tofu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth if needed to bring back the creamy texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! If you love heat, consider adding more red pepper flakes, or even a dash of hot sauce or sriracha. You could also include chopped fresh chili peppers for an extra kick!
