Vegetarian Himmel und Erde with Pan-Fried Tofu

Prepare Mashed Potatoes

1. 1Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt.
2. 2Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain well.
3. 3Return the potatoes to the pot. Mash them until smooth. Stir in butter and warmed milk until smooth and creamy.
4. 4Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Keep warm.

Prepare Tofu and Onions

1. 1Pat the tofu rounds dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
2. 2Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu rounds in a single layer and pan-fry for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. 3Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the same skillet. Add the sliced onions and cook over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and beginning to caramelize. If using, add sugar in the last few minutes of cooking.
4. 4Pour in the vegetable broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the liquid has reduced slightly and coats the onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Dish

1. 1Spoon a generous portion of mashed potatoes onto each plate.
2. 2Place a few pan-fried tofu rounds on top of the mashed potatoes.
3. 3Spoon the caramelized onions over the tofu.
4. 4Serve immediately.