Marry Me Tofu & Orzo
A creamy, one-pan vegan dinner inspired by the viral marry me chicken. Golden pan-seared tofu nestled in orzo simmered with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and a rich dairy-free cream sauce. Deeply comforting and easy to make.
Ingredients
- 1 block extra-firm tofu, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, minced
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup orzo
- 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth
- 3/4 to 1 cup oat cream or coconut milk
- Salt and pepper
- Lemon juice
Instructions
- 1Sear the tofu
Press the tofu for 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture. Slice into 3/4-inch thick slabs. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu in a single layer and cook 3-4 minutes per side, until deeply golden. Transfer tofu to a plate.
- 2Saute the aromatics
Lower heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced onion and cook 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, smoked paprika, chili flakes (if using), and tomato paste. Cook 1-2 minutes to caramelize the tomato paste slightly.
- 3Cook the orzo
Add the orzo and vegetable broth. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- 4Finish and serve
Stir in oat cream or coconut milk. Return the tofu to the skillet, nestling it into the orzo. Simmer 2-3 minutes until everything is saucy and cohesive. Remove from heat. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.
