Marry Me Crispy Tofu with Gnocchi
This delightful dish combines crispy tofu with tender gnocchi, served in a luscious sauce that will make anyone fall in love. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is plant-based and bursting with flavors.
Equipment
- 1 large skillet or frying pan
- 1 pot for boiling water
- 1 slotted spoon
- 1 baking sheet
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 tongs or spatula
Ingredients
- 14 oz extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ cup vegetable oil for frying
- 1 lb store-bought gnocchi
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup canned coconut milk Can be substituted with almond milk for a lighter sauce.
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese Optional.
- to taste salt and pepper For additional seasoning.
- for garnish fresh basil Optional.
Instructions
- Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes and toss them in a mixing bowl with flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until well coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated tofu cubes and fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 10-12 minutes. Remove and place on a baking sheet lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Bring salted water to a boil in another pot. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float to the top, then drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet used for the tofu, add olive oil and minced garlic, sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in vegetable broth and coconut milk, stirring to combine, and bring to a simmer.
- Add the cooked gnocchi and fresh spinach to the skillet. Stir to coat evenly with the sauce, allowing it to simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes until the spinach wilted and the sauce slightly thickens.
- Gently mix the crispy tofu back into the skillet, incorporating it with the gnocchi and sauce. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the Marry Me Crispy Tofu with Gnocchi hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired.
Notes
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and gnocchi.
Feel free to add vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
The coconut milk adds creaminess; if you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute it for almond milk or omit it altogether.