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Marry Me Tofu

Marry Me Tofu: Creamy Garlic Goodness for Cozy Dinners

Marry Me Tofu is a creamy, plant-based dish that transforms a classic favorite into a satisfying meal, perfect for cozy dinners.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Brining Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Tofu
  • 1 block Extra-firm tofu Press thoroughly to remove excess moisture.
  • 2 cups Water Used for brining.
  • 1 tablespoon Kosher salt Enhances flavor during brining.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Smash gently for optimal flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried oregano Provides herbaceous notes.
  • 1 teaspoon Crushed red pepper flakes Adjust according to spice preference.
  • 1/2 cup Cornstarch Creates a crispy coating.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion powder Enhances overall flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika Adds subtle smokiness.
For the Sauce
  • 3 tablespoons Extra-virgin olive oil Ideal for frying.
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter Adds richness; omit for vegan option.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato paste Provides concentrated flavor.
  • 1.25 cups Heavy cream Use plant-based cream for vegan version.
  • 1/3 cup Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes Finely chopped for added sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Add more for serving.
  • 1/2 cup Fresh basil leaves Torn, for freshness.
  • Freshly ground black pepper To taste.

Equipment

  • large bowl
  • mixing bowl
  • large skillet
  • paper towels

Method
 

Brining the Tofu
  1. In a large bowl, combine hot water with kosher salt, stirring until dissolved. Smash garlic cloves and add along with oregano and red pepper flakes. Submerge cubed tofu and soak for 15-20 minutes.
Preparing Tofu Coating
  1. Remove tofu from brine and pat dry. In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, smoked paprika, onion powder, and a pinch of oregano and red pepper flakes. Toss tofu in this mix.
Frying Tofu
  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes in a single layer and fry for 5-7 minutes until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Making the Sauce
  1. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, add butter and melt. Mix in tomato paste, cooking for 2 minutes. Slowly pour in heavy cream, stirring until creamy.
Combining Ingredients
  1. Add crispy tofu back to the skillet with sun-dried tomatoes and grated Parmesan. Stir gently and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Serving
  1. Serve Marry Me Tofu hot over pasta or rice, garnished with more basil and Parmesan.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 20gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For best results, press tofu properly before brining and store leftovers separated from sauce for optimal texture.

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