This creamy Marry Me Tofu is a wonderful dish that combines soft tofu with a rich, dreamy sauce. It’s perfect for impressing that special someone or simply treating yourself!
I love how quick it is to make this dish. Just toss the tofu in the sauce, let it cook, and enjoy! It’s simple, cozy, and makes my taste buds dance. Who doesn’t love a little romance on their plate? ❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tofu: Extra firm tofu is perfect for this dish as it holds its shape well and absorbs flavors. If you can’t find extra firm, firm tofu works too, but be gentle when cooking it to avoid breaking.
Olive oil: I prefer using olive oil for sautéing, but you can use avocado oil or any other neutral oil you have on hand.
Coconut cream: This gives a rich creaminess to the sauce. If you’re not a fan of coconut, heavy cream or even cashew cream can be great alternatives for a similar texture.
Sun-dried tomatoes: These add a burst of flavor. If you’re out of them, you could use fresh tomatoes instead, but be sure to sauté them longer to reduce moisture.
Spices: Adapt the chili flakes to your heat preference. If you want a milder flavor, skip the chili or reduce the amount. Fresh herbs can also be substituted with dried if needed.
How Do You Perfectly Cook Tofu for This Dish?
Cooking tofu so it’s crispy is essential. Here’s how to do it right:
- Press the tofu before cutting. This removes excess moisture and helps it brown better.
- Cut the tofu into even, bite-sized cubes for consistent cooking.
- Heat your skillet over medium heat to get the oil hot. Adding tofu too early can lead to sogginess.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet! Cook in batches if necessary to allow the sides to brown evenly.
Once crisped, the tofu gains a delightful texture that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce. Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Creamy Marry Me Tofu
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 400g extra firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup coconut cream (or heavy cream)
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth or water
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried basil and oregano)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Creamy Marry Me Tofu takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes to cook, making a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and romantic meal that’s perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tofu:
First, you’ll want to press the tofu. This removes excess moisture, which helps the tofu crisp up nicely. Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes and set aside.
2. Cook the Tofu:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the tofu cubes and cook them until they’re golden brown all over, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, carefully remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it! Next, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes, mixing frequently so it doesn’t stick.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the coconut cream and vegetable broth, stirring everything together. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Oh, the aroma is already amazing!
5. Season the Sauce:
Add the red chili flakes, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Stir it well, and let it thicken for about 3-5 minutes. This is where the magic happens!
6. Combine Tofu and Sauce:
Carefully return the tofu cubes to the skillet. Gently fold them into the creamy sauce to coat. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the tofu to soak up those wonderful flavors.
7. Final Touches:
Give everything a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Finally, garnish generously with freshly sliced basil leaves right before serving for that fresh burst of flavor!
8. Serve:
Serve your Creamy Marry Me Tofu warm, and pair it with steamed rice, your favorite pasta, or some crusty bread. Enjoy this comforting and delightful dish with someone special or treat yourself!
This beautiful creamy tofu is a delightful mix of flavors, perfect for any romantic or cozy meal. Happy cooking! 🍽️
Can I Use Silken Tofu Instead of Extra Firm Tofu?
While silken tofu can be used, extra firm tofu is recommended for this dish as it holds its shape better and provides a nice texture when cooked. If using silken tofu, be gentle when handling it, as it is more fragile.
What Can I Substitute for Coconut Cream?
If you’re not a fan of coconut cream, you can use heavy cream or cashew cream for a similar rich texture. If you prefer a dairy-free option, almond or soy cream can work as well, but keep in mind they may alter the flavor slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain the sauce’s creaminess.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! If you like more heat, increase the amount of red chili flakes according to your preference or even add a splash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce. Just taste as you go to find the perfect level of spice for you!
