This Easy Creamy Marry Me Tofu is a dreamy dish with tofu that’s cooked until golden and tossed in a rich, creamy sauce. The best part? It’s super simple to whip up!
I mean, who wouldn’t want to fall in love with a dish this easy? I serve it over rice for a cozy meal that makes my taste buds do a happy dance. 💃🍚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tofu: Firm or extra-firm tofu is best for this recipe, as it holds its shape well. If you need a different protein, tempeh or chickpeas can work as good alternatives.
Olive Oil: This is great for frying, but you can use vegetable oil or avocado oil, which are also high heat-friendly. If you’re looking to reduce fat, consider using a non-stick spray.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds an amazing flavor, but garlic powder could work in a pinch. Just remember to use less; about 1/8 teaspoon for every clove.
Sun-dried Tomatoes: Packed with flavor, I love them in this dish! You can substitute with roasted red peppers for a different twist or even fresh tomatoes, although they’ll change the texture.
Cream: Heavy cream is rich and provides thickness, but coconut cream is a perfect dairy-free swap. For a lighter option, try cashew cream or almond milk (though it will be thinner).
Basil: Fresh basil brightens the dish, but you can use dried herbs if fresh isn’t available. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about a third of the amount.
How Do I Get Crispy Tofu?
Getting that perfect crispy tofu is crucial for texture in this dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Always press your tofu to remove excess moisture—about 15-30 minutes is ideal.
- Cut the tofu into even cubes to ensure uniform cooking.
- Heat the oil in a hot pan; the oil should shimmer before adding tofu.
- Let the tofu sit undisturbed for a few minutes before flipping, this allows for that golden crust to form.
- Cook until all sides are crispy, which usually takes around 8-10 minutes in total.
Now your tofu will be beautifully crispy and ready to soak up all that creamy sauce!
Easy Creamy Marry Me Tofu Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tofu:
- 14 oz (400 g) firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for a dairy-free option)
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth or water
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or herbes de Provence
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves, sliced
- Optional: 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes of prep and cooking time. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that can be served over rice or pasta for a complete dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tofu:
To begin, press the tofu to remove as much excess water as possible, which usually takes about 15-30 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
2. Pan-fry the Tofu:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the tofu cubes, frying until all sides are golden and crispy, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Once done, remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if necessary (you want enough to sauté). Sauté the minced garlic until it becomes fragrant, about 1 minute. Next, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Combine Cream and Broth:
Pour in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) along with the vegetable broth. Stir well, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Season the Sauce:
Add in the red chili flakes, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly to your desired consistency.
6. Incorporate Tofu:
Return the crispy tofu cubes back into the skillet. Gently toss the tofu in the sauce to ensure it’s evenly coated. Cook everything together for another 2-3 minutes to warm the tofu and let the flavors meld together.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle fresh sliced basil over the top of your dish. Serve immediately over steamed rice, pasta, or your favorite grain for a delicious meal.
Enjoy your delicious, creamy Marry Me Tofu! It’s sure to win hearts at the dinner table.
FAQ for Easy Creamy Marry Me Tofu
Can I Use Soft Tofu Instead of Firm?
It’s best to use firm or extra-firm tofu for this recipe. Soft tofu tends to break apart and wouldn’t hold its shape while frying. If you only have soft tofu, consider gently incorporating it into soups or salads instead!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love spice, feel free to increase the amount of red chili flakes in the sauce or add a splash of hot sauce while cooking. You can also incorporate finely chopped fresh chili peppers for an extra kick.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the tofu and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat them gently on the stove before serving, adding a splash of vegetable broth if the sauce thickens too much.
What Are Some Serving Suggestions?
Marry Me Tofu is delicious over a bed of steamed rice, pasta, or quinoa. For a lighter option, serve it with a side of sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad. You can also use it as a filling for wraps or sandwiches!
