This Creamy Marry Me Tofu is a delightful dish that’s full of flavor and super easy to whip up. Silky tofu meets a rich, creamy sauce that makes every bite simply enjoyable!
You might just find yourself asking, “Will you marry me?” after tasting this! 😂 It’s perfect for cozy nights in, and trust me, it’s a hit even for tofu skeptics!
I love how this dish takes just minutes to prepare! Serve it over rice or noodles for a yummy meal that feels extra special without the fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tofu: I recommend using firm or extra-firm tofu for the best texture. If you’re avoiding soy, you could use tempeh or seitan as a substitute. Just be sure to adjust cooking times!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a nice tangy flavor. If you don’t have them, try cherry tomatoes or even roasted red peppers for a different twist!
Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk gives a creamy texture. If you prefer dairy, heavy cream works well. For a lower-fat option, you can use almond milk, but keep in mind the flavor will be lighter.
Nutritional Yeast: This is optional but gives a cheesy flavor. If you don’t have it, grated Parmesan for non-vegans or a splash of soy sauce for umami could be great alternatives.
How Do I Get Perfectly Golden Tofu?
Sautéing the tofu until it’s golden brown can really enhance its taste and texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure to press the tofu well to remove excess moisture—this helps it brown better.
- Heat your skillet over medium heat and add oil or butter.
- Add tofu cubes in a single layer; avoid overcrowding the pan so they can brown evenly.
- Let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes before flipping to achieve that nice golden color.
Getting that perfect golden crust makes all the difference in flavor, and adds a lovely texture to your dish!
What’s the Best Way to Thicken Your Sauce?
A creamy sauce can be easily thickened. Follow these tips for the best results:
- Simmer the sauce gently after adding the coconut milk. This allows it to reduce and thicken naturally.
- Consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water if you like a thicker consistency. Just stir it in while the sauce is simmering.
- Don’t forget to stir regularly so it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan!
These techniques will help you achieve a beautifully creamy sauce that clings to the tofu perfectly!
Creamy Marry Me Tofu – Easy Comfort Meal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 14 oz (400 g) firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegan butter
- 3-4 sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 cup (240 ml) full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream (for dairy version)
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) vegetable broth or water
- 1 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional, for cheesy flavor)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, making it a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal anytime!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tofu:
Start by pressing the tofu for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture—this will help it brown nicely. Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes once pressed.
2. Sauté the Tofu:
In a large non-stick skillet, heat the olive oil or vegan butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the tofu cubes. Cook them until they are golden brown on all sides, approximately 8-10 minutes. Once they are browned, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Create the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and, if using, chopped shallot. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Next, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
4. Make it Creamy:
Pour in the coconut milk (or heavy cream) and vegetable broth, stirring well to combine. Then, add nutritional yeast, Italian seasoning, red chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
5. Thicken and Combine:
Let the sauce cook for about 4-5 minutes to allow it to thicken slightly. Once thickened, gently return the sautéed tofu to the pan, ensuring each piece is coated well in the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through and meld the flavors.
6. Serve It Up:
Garnish your dish with fresh, thinly sliced basil leaves for a lovely aroma and flavor boost. Serve this creamy tofu over cooked rice, pasta, or your favorite grain for an irresistible comfort meal!
This recipe yields a rich, creamy, and flavorful tofu dish that’s sure to satisfy! Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Creamy Marry Me Tofu
Can I Use Different Types of Tofu?
Absolutely! Firm or extra-firm tofu works best for this recipe as it retains its shape during cooking. If you’re in a pinch, silken tofu can be used for a creamier texture, but the cooking method will need adjustments since silken tofu is more delicate.
What Can I Substitute for Coconut Milk?
If you prefer a dairy-based option, you can use heavy cream or half-and-half instead of coconut milk. For a lighter non-dairy alternative, almond milk or oat milk can work, but the texture and flavor will be different. You might want to add a tablespoon of flour to help thicken the sauce.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.
What Can I Serve with Creamy Marry Me Tofu?
This dish pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or even quinoa. For a healthier option, serve it alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to complement the rich flavors!
