This Marry Me Tofu recipe is a delicious twist on a classic dish! With crispy tofu and a creamy sauce, it’s sure to impress anyone at your dinner table.
It’s a crowd-pleaser that even tofu skeptics love! I whip it up to share with friends, and they always say, “Wow, I might just marry this dish!” 😄
The best part? It’s simple to make! Just fry the tofu and toss it in that dreamy sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner. I can’t get enough of it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tofu: Firm tofu is essential here for holding its shape while frying. If you’re looking for a different texture, try extra-firm tofu. For a soy-free option, use chickpeas instead, though the dish will change in flavor.
Heavy Cream: I prefer heavy cream for richness, but coconut cream works great for a dairy-free version. You can also use cashew cream or a nut milk with a thickener to mimic the texture if you’re vegan.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a unique flavor, but if you’re out, use fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers. They won’t have the same punch, but they’ll still work in a pinch.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan deepens the flavor but feel free to omit it or replace it with nutritional yeast for a vegan twist. It adds a nice cheesy essence without dairy.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Tofu?
Achieving crispy tofu is key to this recipe! The trick lies in pressing it to remove excess moisture. Here’s how:
- Use a tofu press or wrap your tofu in a clean kitchen towel. Place a weight on top for 15-20 minutes.
- Slice or cube the tofu after pressing to help it cook evenly.
- Fry in a skillet with preheated oil over medium heat, ensuring you don’t overcrowd the pan. This allows for proper browning.
Keep an eye on the tofu and flip it once it is golden. It should be crispy outside while tender inside. Enjoy!
Easy Marry Me Tofu
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 14 oz (400g) firm tofu, pressed and cut into slices or cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot or ¼ cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for dairy-free
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional or vegan Parmesan)
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or a mix of basil, oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tbsp sliced almonds (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25-30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients, another 10-15 minutes cooking, and just a few minutes finalizing and serving the dish. It’s quick and easy for a delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tofu:
Start by pressing the tofu for at least 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture. This step is important for getting crispy tofu! Once pressed, cut it into slices or cubes based on your preference.
2. Cook the Tofu:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the tofu pieces carefully to avoid splattering. Cook until each piece is golden brown and crisp, around 3-4 minutes per side. Once done, remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté Aromatics:
Using the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if necessary. Sauté the minced garlic and chopped shallots (or onion) over medium heat until fragrant and translucent, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional minute to let their flavor release into the pan.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the vegetable broth and heavy cream (or coconut cream), stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
6. Season the Sauce:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese (if using), red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the sauce. Let it simmer gently for about 4-5 minutes.
7. Combine Tofu and Sauce:
Add the fried tofu back into the skillet, gently coating it with the creamy sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes to ensure everything is warmed through.
8. Add Fresh Herbs:
Stir in the chopped fresh basil just before serving to keep the flavor fresh and vibrant.
9. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, garnish your dish with sliced almonds for some added crunch. Serve hot over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread for a comforting and satisfying dinner.
Enjoy your creamy, flavorful Easy Marry Me Tofu!
FAQ for Easy Marry Me Tofu
Can I Use Different Types of Tofu?
Yes, you can use extra-firm tofu for an even firmer texture. Soft or silken tofu may not work well in this recipe since they don’t hold their shape while cooking. Make sure to press any tofu you use to remove excess moisture!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
Absolutely! If you like heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce. You can also include sliced jalapeños or chili peppers for an extra kick!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the tofu and sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until heated through to maintain the creamy texture.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes! To keep this recipe vegan, simply use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and omit the Parmesan cheese, or switch it with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative. The dish will still be rich and flavorful!
