This Creamy Marry Me Tofu is a tasty dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners! Soft tofu is blended with a rich, creamy sauce, making it both comforting and satisfying.
Honestly, serve this with rice and you’ll be everyone’s favorite cook! I love how quick it is; just toss everything together and enjoy a delicious meal in no time. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tofu: Firm or extra-firm tofu works best here for a nice texture. If you’re looking for a different option, tempeh can also be used for a nuttier flavor and denser bite. Always press your tofu first to get rid of excess moisture!
Heavy cream: For a creamy, rich sauce, heavy cream is ideal. However, if you’re vegan or prefer lighter options, full-fat coconut milk gives a similar texture and richness. I love the subtle coconut flavor it adds!
Sun-dried tomatoes: These add a burst of flavor. If you don’t have them on hand, diced fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers can be a good substitute, but add them earlier in the cooking process for the best flavor boost.
Fresh basil: This herb brings freshness to the dish. If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil. Just remember, dried herbs are stronger, so reduce the amount you use.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Tofu for a Perfect Texture?
The way you prepare your tofu can really change its texture and taste. Here’s my go-to method:
- Always drain and press the tofu before cooking. This removes excess moisture, making it easier to achieve that golden, crispy exterior.
- Cook over medium heat in oil until golden brown on all sides—about 5-7 minutes. This gives the tofu a nice flavor and texture, so don’t rush it!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Give each cube room to crisp up, or they might steam instead. This makes a huge difference!
Creamy Marry Me Tofu
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tofu:
- 14 oz (400g) firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably oil-packed)
- 1 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk (for dairy-free)
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth or water
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan for added umami
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes to cook, making it a quick dish ready in about 30 minutes. It’s perfect for weeknight meals, and you can enjoy the creamy goodness with minimal fuss.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Tofu:
Start by draining and pressing the tofu to get rid of excess moisture—this helps it crisp up nicely. Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes, and set aside.
2. Cooking the Tofu:
In a large skillet, heat the olive or vegetable oil over medium heat. Carefully add the tofu cubes and cook them for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and slightly crispy on all sides. Once done, remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Making the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it! Next, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and stir for another minute to release their delicious flavors.
4. Combining Ingredients:
Pour in the vegetable broth and heavy cream (or coconut milk) while stirring to combine. Add in red chili flakes, dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 5 minutes, letting it thicken slightly.
5. Bringing it Together:
Gently return the cooked tofu to the skillet and stir well to coat the tofu evenly with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through. Feel free to taste and adjust seasoning as you go!
6. Finishing Touches:
If you’re using nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan, sprinkle it over the dish now for an extra cheesy flavor. Finally, garnish with freshly chopped basil on top for a burst of freshness.
7. Serving:
Serve this delightful Creamy Marry Me Tofu hot over steamed rice, pasta, or with some crusty bread. Enjoy every bite of this comforting meal!
This creamy dish beautifully combines the richness from the sauce with the tangy notes of sun-dried tomatoes and a kick of heat from chili flakes, while fresh basil adds a lovely finishing touch!
FAQ: Creamy Marry Me Tofu
Can I Use Silken Tofu Instead of Firm Tofu?
While silken tofu can be used in this recipe, it won’t provide the same texture as firm tofu. Silken tofu is best for blending into sauces or soups. If you prefer a firmer bite, stick with firm or extra-firm tofu for a better outcome.
Can I Substitute Coconut Milk for Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! Full-fat coconut milk is an excellent dairy-free alternative that adds creaminess and a subtle coconut flavor to the dish. Just make sure to choose the canned version for the best consistency!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
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 vegetable broth or cream to maintain the sauce’s creaminess as it reheats.
What Else Can I Add to This Dish?
Feel free to customize this dish! You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or peas for extra color and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the garlic to infuse their flavors into the sauce!
