This creamy Marry Me Tofu is simply lovely! It’s made with silky tofu, rich coconut milk, and tasty seasonings that make every bite feel special.
I swear, once you taste this, you might just want to say “I do” to it! 😂 It’s super easy to whip up, perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing your friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tofu: Firm or extra-firm tofu is essential for this recipe. It holds its shape during cooking. If you’re soy-free, try using tempeh or seitan instead, although the texture will be different.
Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk creates a rich, creamy sauce. If you want a lower-fat option, use light coconut milk or even cashew cream for a nut-based alternative.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a sweet and tangy flavor. If they’re not available, you can substitute roasted red peppers or even fresh tomatoes, though you may need to adjust cooking times.
Nutritional Yeast: This provides a cheesy flavor, but it’s optional. For a similar taste, you can use grated Parmesan cheese if you’re not vegan. Just add it when you stir the coconut milk!
How Do You Get Tofu to Be Crispy?
Getting crispy tofu is all about the pressing and cooking technique. Here’s how:
- Start by pressing the tofu for at least 20 minutes to get rid of excess moisture. Use a tofu press or wrap it in kitchen towels with something heavy on top.
- Cut it into cubes and heat the oil in a skillet on medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot before adding tofu to ensure a good sear.
- Let the tofu cook undisturbed for a few minutes on each side to get that golden crust. Only stir when it’s browned to avoid breaking it apart.
Creamy Marry Me Tofu Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 14 oz (400 g) firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil or any cooking oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup coconut milk (full fat for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth or water
- 1 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy flavor)
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried herbs (basil, oregano)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, sliced for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 15 minutes to cook. So, in just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, creamy dish ready to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Tofu:
To begin, press the tofu to remove excess water—this helps it get nice and crispy when cooked. After pressing, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes and set aside.
2. Cooking the Tofu:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the tofu cubes. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown on all sides. After cooking, remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sautéing Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it! Then, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and stir for another 1-2 minutes to combine the flavors.
4. Creating the Creamy Sauce:
Now, pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth (or water), stirring to blend everything well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, which will help develop those wonderful flavors.
5. Spice It Up:
Stir in the optional nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, then add the red chili flakes and Italian seasoning. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combining the Tofu and Sauce:
Return the cooked tofu to the skillet and gently stir to coat it in the creamy sauce. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and for the tofu to heat through.
7. Finishing Touches:
Once ready, remove from heat and garnish with fresh sliced basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. And that’s it!
8. Serving:
Serve the creamy Marry Me Tofu hot, either on its own or with your favorite side—like rice, pasta, or crusty bread. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Happy cooking!
FAQ for Creamy Marry Me Tofu
Can I Use Extra-Firm Tofu Instead of Firm Tofu?
Absolutely! Extra-firm tofu will work perfectly in this recipe. It has a denser texture, which can give you a slightly firmer bite. Just make sure to press it well to remove as much moisture as possible.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
To adjust the heat, you can modify the amount of red chili flakes. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the chili flakes to a pinch. For more heat, feel free to double the amount or add fresh chili peppers when cooking.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
This recipe is already vegan! If you’re looking to increase the creaminess, consider using a plant-based heavy cream substitute instead of the coconut milk. Just make sure it’s unsweetened!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of coconut milk or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
