This creamy Marry Me Tofu is a delightful dish that combines soft tofu with a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s simple to make and perfect for a cozy meal at home!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Firm Tofu: Firm tofu is ideal here for its ability to hold shape and absorb flavors. If you’re sensitive to soy, try tempeh or seitan as alternatives.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add sweetness and depth. If you can’t find them, diced fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers can work in a pinch, but they won’t have the same concentrated flavor.
Coconut Milk or Heavy Cream: Coconut milk gives a wonderful creaminess, perfect for vegan options. If you prefer something lighter, you can use almond milk or oat milk, although the sauce might be less creamy.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds bright flavor. If it’s out of season, dried basil can substitute, but use less since dried herbs are more potent. You can also use parsley or thyme as alternatives.
How Do You Get Tofu to Brown Perfectly?
Browning tofu gives it a delightful texture and rich flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Press your tofu to remove excess moisture. If it’s too wet, it won’t brown well.
- Heat your skillet and add enough oil to coat the bottom. A hot pan is crucial!
- Gently add the cubed tofu, making sure not to overcrowd the pan — this helps it brown rather than steam.
- Cook undisturbed for a few minutes on each side to develop a good golden color before flipping.
Don’t rush this step; patience is key to achieving that perfect browning!
Creamy Marry Me Tofu
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 14 oz (400g) firm tofu, drained and cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably oil-packed)
- 1 cup coconut milk or heavy cream (use coconut milk for vegan)
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth or water
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs or herbes de Provence
- 1/4 tsp red chili flakes (adjust for heat preference)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and about 15-20 minutes for cooking, totaling approximately 30-35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s great for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tofu:
Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Place the tofu between two paper towels and gently press for about 10-15 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
2. Brown the Tofu:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Carefully add the tofu cubes and cook, turning occasionally, until they are lightly browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as burned garlic can taste bitter.
4. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Next, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and stir for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld with the garlic.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the coconut milk or heavy cream, along with the vegetable broth or water. Stir to combine and create a creamy sauce.
6. Season the Sauce:
Add the dried Italian herbs and red chili flakes. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
7. Simmer the Sauce:
Let the sauce simmer gently on low heat for about 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
8. Combine the Tofu:
Return the browned tofu to the skillet and gently toss to coat each piece in the creamy sauce. Heat through for another 2-3 minutes until everything is warmed properly.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh sliced basil leaves. Serve warm over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread. Enjoy your rich and flavorful Creamy Marry Me Tofu — a perfect blend of creamy, savory, and just a touch of spice!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute the Tofu with Other Ingredients?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of tofu, you can use tempeh or seitan for a different texture. Additionally, cooked chickpeas or lentils can also work well for a protein-packed option.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like heat, consider adding more red chili flakes or incorporating sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper. You can also serve it with a drizzle of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and tofu ahead of time. Just refrigerate them separately for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of coconut milk or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
What Are the Best Ways to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Creamy Marry Me Tofu in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
