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Tofu & Mushroom Cheezy Florentine

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Take your dinner game up a notch with this Tofu & Mushroom Cheezy Florentine! Packed with golden tofu, earthy mushrooms, vibrant spinach, and a luscious vegan cheezy sauce, this dish is both indulgent and nourishing. Whether you’re vegan or simply looking to explore plant-based cooking, this recipe promises to deliver flavor and comfort in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and Creamy: The vegan cheezy sauce is decadently creamy without dairy.
  • Packed with Nutrients: Spinach, mushrooms, and tofu bring a wholesome balance to this dish.
  • Versatile: Serve it with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or even garlic bread for a complete meal.
  • Elegant Yet Easy: Fancy enough for special occasions but simple enough for weeknights.

Ingredients for Tofu & Mushroom Cheezy Florentine

For the Tofu and Mushrooms:

  • 1/2 block extra firm tofu (pressed, dried, and cut into cubes or rectangles)
  • 1 tsp neutral oil (for brushing)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • 4 oz baby Bella mushrooms (cleaned and sliced)
  • 1/2 tbsp vegan butter (for cooking tofu and mushrooms)

For the Cheezy Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp vegan butter (for the sauce)
  • 1 shallot (sliced, approx. 1/4 cup)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (vegan)
  • 1/2 cup broth (vegetable or vegan chicken broth)
  • 1/4 cup vegan cream cheese (room temperature)
  • 1/4 cup vegan Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup non-dairy milk (plus more if needed for consistency)
  • 1 handful baby spinach
  • Juice from 1/2 lemon
  • Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep and Cook the Tofu

  • Brush tofu slices with neutral oil and coat evenly with Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  • Heat 1/2 tbsp vegan butter in a large non-stick pan over medium heat.
  • Cook the tofu slices for 5–8 minutes per side until golden brown.
  • Set aside and wipe the pan clean.

2. Sauté the Mushrooms

  • Heat the remaining 1/2 tbsp vegan butter in the same pan over medium heat.
  • Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 2–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
  • Remove from the pan and set aside.

3. Make the Cheezy Sauce Base

  • In the same pan, melt the remaining 2 tbsp vegan butter over medium-low heat.
  • Add the sliced shallot and minced garlic. Stir and cook for 1–2 minutes until the shallot softens and the garlic is fragrant.
  • Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for 30 seconds to cook out the raw flavor.

4. Build the Cheezy Sauce

  • Slowly pour in the white wine and broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
  • Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3–5 minutes until noticeably reduced and slightly thickened.
  • Stir in the vegan cream cheese and vegan Parmesan, mixing until melted and smooth.

5. Add Spinach and Adjust Consistency

  • Stir in the baby spinach and cook for about 1 minute until wilted.
  • If the sauce is too thick, add non-dairy milk 1 tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
  • Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Combine and Serve

  • Return the cooked mushrooms and tofu to the pan, tossing to coat them in the sauce. Heat through.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley, an extra sprinkle of Parmesan, and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
  • Serve hot with garlic bread, pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Tips for the Best Cheezy Florentine

  • Press the Tofu Well: Removing excess water helps the tofu crisp up beautifully.
  • Choose the Right Wine: A vegan dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc adds depth without overwhelming the dish.
  • Use Fresh Spinach: Baby spinach wilts quickly and blends seamlessly into the sauce.
  • Boost the Flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat or nutritional yeast for extra cheezy flavor.

Serving Suggestions

  • As a Main Dish: Pair with pasta, polenta, or creamy mashed potatoes.
  • For a Complete Meal: Serve alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
  • With Bread: Garlic bread or warm sourdough slices are perfect for soaking up the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use silken tofu instead of extra firm?
Silken tofu won’t hold its shape well for this recipe. Stick to extra firm or super firm tofu for best results.

What other mushrooms can I use?
Cremini, shiitake, or oyster mushrooms work well if baby Bellas are unavailable.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of non-dairy milk to refresh the sauce.

Can I make this nut-free?
Most vegan Parmesan and cream cheeses are nut-based, but you can find nut-free alternatives or make your own.

Is the wine necessary?
If you prefer to skip the wine, replace it with extra broth for a similar result.

Conclusion: A Fancy Vegan Dish Made Simple

This Tofu & Mushroom Cheezy Florentine combines elegance and comfort in a single dish. With its creamy, garlicky sauce and hearty plant-based ingredients, it’s perfect for both special occasions and casual dinners.

Try it today, and savor the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and nourishment. Bon appétit!

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