This creamy Marry Me Tofu is full of flavor and perfect for a cozy meal! Made with smooth tofu, rich sauces, and some delicious spices, it’s sure to impress.
Just picture sharing this dish with someone special. It’s so tasty that they might just pop the question after a bite! 😂 I like serving it with rice for a hearty dinner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tofu: Firm or extra firm tofu is best to get that nice texture. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider tempeh or chickpeas for a different protein source. Just make sure to press any tofu to remove excess moisture.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a lovely tangy flavor. If not available, any canned tomatoes or roasted red peppers can work too—just chop them finely. You can also use fresh tomatoes, but the flavor won’t be as concentrated.
Coconut Milk: While coconut milk gives a rich creaminess, you can substitute with heavy cream or a dairy-free cream if you prefer. Almond or oat milk are lighter options, but they won’t be as thick.
Italian Seasoning: This mix of herbs is key for flavor. If you don’t have it, use individual herbs like dried basil, oregano, or thyme. Fresh herbs can also shine here if you have them on hand!
How Can I Make Sure My Tofu is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking tofu can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get it right every time! Start by pressing the tofu to remove as much moisture as possible. This helps it absorb flavors and get crispy.
- Cut tofu into even cubes for consistent cooking.
- Heat your skillet before adding oil, then be sure the oil is hot before adding tofu. This prevents sticking.
- Cook tofu until it’s golden brown on all sides. Give it time and don’t rush the process.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—give pieces room to cook evenly.
With these steps, you’ll have tofu that’s not just cooked but also packed with delicious flavor, making your Creamy Marry Me Tofu truly irresistible!
How to Make Creamy Marry Me Tofu?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tofu:
- 14 oz (400g) firm or extra firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup coconut milk (or heavy cream)
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth or water
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 15-20 minutes for cooking. In total, you’re looking at roughly 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Tofu:
Start by pressing the tofu gently between paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture. This will help it crisp up nicely. Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes and set aside for later.
2. Cooking the Tofu:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the tofu cubes. Cook, turning occasionally, until they’re golden and crispy on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Once done, remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside—don’t worry, it will go back in later!
3. Sautéing the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Adding the Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Next, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to combine.
5. Making the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer; you’ll notice it starting to thicken as you stir.
6. Seasoning the Sauce:
Add the dried Italian seasoning, red chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly—this is where the magic happens!
7. Combining Everything:
Return the crispy tofu cubes back to the skillet, making sure to coat them well in the creamy sauce. Let everything cook together for 2-3 minutes to allow the tofu to soak up all the flavors.
8. Final Touches:
Give it a taste! Adjust the seasoning if needed, then garnish with fresh sliced basil for a fragrant finish.
9. Serving:
Serve hot over steamed rice, pasta, or with some crusty bread for a complete meal that’s bursting with flavors!
Enjoy your creamy Marry Me tofu—it’s sure to be a hit during dinner!
FAQ for Creamy Marry Me Tofu
Can I Use Firm Tofu Instead of Extra Firm?
Yes, you can! Firm tofu will work fine, but be sure to press it well to remove excess moisture. Just keep in mind that it may be slightly softer in texture compared to extra firm tofu.
How Do I Store Leftover Creamy Marry Me Tofu?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain the creamy texture.
What Can I Substitute for Coconut Milk?
If you prefer a different option, heavy cream or a dairy-free cream (like cashew cream) can be used as substitutes. Almond or oat milk are lighter alternatives, but they won’t give the same rich creaminess as coconut milk.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you like it spicy, feel free to add more red chili flakes or even some diced fresh chili peppers while cooking. Adjust to your preferred heat level!
