This Creamy Mary Me Tofu is a fun and tasty dish that’s super easy to make! With soft tofu and a yummy creamy sauce, it’s great for anyone who loves quick meals.
Honestly, my favorite part is how fast it comes together—just mix and enjoy! Serve it over rice or noodles, and it’s like a warm hug on a plate! 🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tofu: Firm tofu is essential here for a nice texture that holds up well when fried. If you prefer something lighter, you can use extra-firm tofu, but avoid soft tofu as it won’t hold its shape.
Coconut Milk: I love the creaminess of coconut milk, but heavy cream is a fine substitute if you’re looking for a richer flavor. For a dairy-free option, plant-based cream can work too!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor. If you don’t have any, diced fresh tomatoes can be used, just keep in mind that they will offer a different texture and taste.
Nutritional Yeast: This is optional but really enhances the flavor with a cheesy note. If you don’t have it, you can skip it or use a bit of grated Parmesan cheese instead for a non-vegan alternative.
How Do I Get Perfectly Fried Tofu?
Getting that crispy tofu texture can be tricky, but it’s a game-changer! Here are some tips to make it easier:
- Press the tofu to remove moisture—it helps with crisping up. Remember, the drier, the better!
- Heat your skillet well before adding oil. If the oil isn’t hot, the tofu will stick and not get that lovely golden color.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet! Give the tofu space to sear properly. If needed, fry in batches.
- Flip the tofu cubes gently. Let them cook until golden—don’t rush to move them around!
How to Make Creamy Mary Me Tofu
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tofu Dish:
- 14 oz (400g) firm tofu, drained and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying tofu)
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup coconut milk or heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (use oil-packed for more flavor)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder or cayenne pepper (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 tsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy flavor)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped, for garnish
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation, along with 10-15 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll be enjoying this creamy and delicious dish in just about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tofu:
Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Place it between two clean kitchen towels and put a heavy object on top for about 15 minutes. This step is important for getting crispy tofu. After pressing, cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes.
2. Fry the Tofu:
In a large non-stick skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the tofu cubes and fry them until golden brown on all sides. This should take about 3-5 minutes for each side. Once they’re done, remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet where you fried the tofu, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, stir in the tomato paste, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Cook for another minute to let the spices bloom.
4. Combine and Simmer:
Add the coconut milk (or heavy cream), chopped sun-dried tomatoes, soy sauce, and nutritional yeast (if using) to the skillet. Stir everything together well and let it simmer over low heat for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. Season it with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Finish the Dish:
Carefully return the fried tofu cubes to the skillet. Gently toss them to coat them in the creamy sauce. Cook everything together for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
6. Serve:
Garnish the creamy tofu with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy your Creamy Mary Me Tofu warm over steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles for a delicious and satisfying meal!
Bon appétit! Enjoy your flavorful and creamy Mary Me Tofu, perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner!
FAQ About Creamy Mary Me Tofu
Can I Use Different Types of Tofu?
Yes! You can use extra-firm tofu for a similar texture, but avoid soft tofu as it won’t hold its shape. For a lighter option, try silken tofu, but keep in mind it will result in a creamier, less textured dish.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love the heat, feel free to increase the amount of chili powder or cayenne pepper in the sauce. You can also add fresh chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick!
Can I Meal Prep This Dish?
Absolutely! You can prepare the tofu and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of coconut milk or water to loosen the sauce.
What Should I Serve with Creamy Mary Me Tofu?
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
