Description
Marry Me Tofu is a rich and flavorful vegetarian dish featuring extra-firm tofu seared to a golden brown and simmered in a creamy, spicy sun-dried tomato sauce. Infused with garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan, this comforting recipe captures the essence of an indulgent Italian-inspired sauce, perfect for a satisfying dinner that suits vegetarians seeking a hearty, protein-packed meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Tofu and Brine
- 1 (14-oz.) block extra-firm tofu
- 4 garlic cloves, divided
- 4 cups water
- 2 tbsp kosher salt, plus more for seasoning
- 1 1/4 tsp dried oregano, divided
- 1 tsp plus a pinch crushed red pepper flakes, divided
Coating Mixture
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- a pinch of salt
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
Cooking and Sauce
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 1/4 cups heavy cream (more as needed)
- 1/3 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn, plus more for serving
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the tofu: Drain the tofu block and cut it in half crosswise. Then cut each half into 1-inch pieces. Use a fork to poke each piece to help absorb flavor. Arrange the tofu pieces in a single layer in a 9″ x 9″ baking dish.
- Make the brine and soak tofu: Peel and smash 2 garlic cloves and place them in a small saucepan. Add 4 cups of water, 2 tablespoons kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, and 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil over high heat. Pour this hot brine over the tofu in the baking dish and let soak for 20 minutes to infuse flavor.
- Dry the tofu: Line a baking sheet with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Remove the tofu pieces from the brine one or two at a time and pat dry thoroughly on all sides with paper towels. Arrange them on the lined baking sheet, cover with more towels or a clean kitchen towel, and gently pat dry again, taking care not to press too hard to keep the tofu intact.
- Coat tofu with seasoning: In a shallow bowl, mix cornstarch, onion powder, smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt. Toss the dried tofu pieces gently in this cornstarch-spice mixture until fully coated.
- Sear the tofu: Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu pieces and cook, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides, about 10 minutes. Transfer the tofu to a wire rack set over the baking sheet to drain excess oil and season lightly with salt. Wipe out the skillet.
- Prepare the sauce: Finely chop the remaining 2 garlic cloves. In the same skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped garlic, remaining 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Stir and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add tomato paste and cook, stirring, until it turns a rich brick-red color, about 30 seconds more. Pour in the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir and cook until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth, about 2 minutes.
- Combine and finish: Add the seared tofu and torn basil leaves to the skillet. Stir gently and cook until everything is warmed through, about 30 seconds. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add more cream one tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is achieved. Serve topped with extra basil and Parmesan cheese as garnish.
Notes
- Pressing the tofu before brining is not required here because soaking in the brine first helps infuse flavor directly.
- Tofu browning can be done in batches if your skillet is small.
- Use extra-virgin olive oil for the best flavor, but any neutral oil will work for searing.
- The dish can be adjusted for spice level by varying the crushed red pepper flakes.
- For a vegan version, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and omit Parmesan or use a vegan cheese substitute.
- Serve with crusty bread, pasta, or over steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Keywords: Tofu, Marry Me Sauce, Sun-dried Tomatoes, Cream Sauce, Vegetarian, Italian-inspired, Garlic, Basil, Parmesan, Spicy
