Savory French Toast

Introduction

Discover the perfect recipe for savory French toast, a delightful twist on the classic breakfast dish. This recipe combines fresh herbs and spices to create a wholesome meal that’s flavorful, satisfying, and simple to make. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, savory French toast is sure to impress your taste buds and elevate any meal.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

To make this delicious savory French toast, you will need the following ingredients:

4 large eggs

1/2 cup of whole milk

1/4 cup of finely chopped fresh cilantro

2 tablespoons of finely chopped red onion

1 green chili, finely minced (optional, for heat)

1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper

1/4 teaspoon of ground turmeric

1/2 teaspoon of salt or to taste

6 slices of day-old bread (sandwich bread works great)

2 to 3 tablespoons of oil or butter for cooking

Prep Time

This recipe requires minimal prep work. Preparing the batter will take about 5 minutes if you have the ingredients measured and ready to go. The main focus is on combining the eggs, milk, fresh herbs, and spices to create the rich, savory mixture that will coat your bread slices.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Once the batter is ready, cooking this savory French toast will take around 10 minutes. Simply heat a skillet, coat each bread slice in the egg mixture, and cook on both sides until golden brown. The entire process, including both preparation and cooking, will take 15 minutes from start to finish. This recipe yields approximately 6 servings, making it perfect for families or small gatherings. Adjust the ingredient quantities as needed depending on your group size.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients for the savory French toast, ensuring the bread slices are fresh but slightly firm, as this will help them absorb the egg mixture without becoming too soggy.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Egg Mixture

In a mixing bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them thoroughly. Add milk to the eggs and continue to mix until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Add salt, black pepper, turmeric, red chili powder, cumin seeds, and cilantro to the egg mixture. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Heat the Pan

Place a non-stick or cast-iron skillet on medium heat. Add a small amount of oil or butter to the pan and spread it evenly to coat the surface. Allow the pan to preheat so the toast cooks evenly.

Step 4: Dip the Bread

Take one slice of bread and dip it into the egg mixture. Make sure both sides of the bread are coated evenly, but avoid soaking the bread for too long to prevent it from falling apart.

Step 5: Cook the Bread

Carefully place the egg-coated bread slice onto the preheated pan. Cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes or until golden brown and crisp. Adjust the heat as needed to avoid burning and to ensure even cooking.

Step 6: Repeat for Remaining Slices

Repeat the dipping and cooking process for the remaining bread slices, adding more oil or butter to the pan as necessary. Cook all slices until they are golden and crispy on the outside.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the cooked savory French toast slices from the pan and transfer them to a plate. Serve them hot, with accompaniments such as ketchup, yogurt, or your preferred dipping sauce. Garnish with additional cilantro if desired.

Notes

Note 1: Bread Selection

It is recommended to use slightly stale or firmer bread rather than fresh bread, as it holds up better when dipped in the egg mixture.

Note 2: Spice Level

Adjust the quantity of red chili powder or omit it entirely for a milder recipe, especially if cooking for children or those who prefer less spice.

Note 3: Vegan Option

For a vegan variation, substitute the eggs with a mixture of chickpea flour (besan) and water, and use plant-based milk instead of regular milk.

Note 4: Cooking Oil

Use neutral oils such as vegetable or avocado oil for cooking or opt for butter for a richer flavor.

Note 5: Serving Suggestions

Serve immediately for the best taste and texture. Leftovers can be reheated in a toaster or pan to restore their crispiness.

Note 6: Additional Garnishes

Add additional toppings like finely chopped green chilies, scallions, or cheese for extra flavor.

Cook Techniques

Prepare the bread

Cut slices of bread into halves or quarters. Choose sturdy bread like sourdough, multigrain, or ciabatta to prevent it from getting soggy.

Create the savory mixture

Whisk together eggs, milk, and seasonings. Add vegetables like onions, tomatoes, and herbs for added flavor and texture.

Use the right pan

Heat a large, non-stick pan or cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of oil or butter for even cooking and to avoid sticking.

Cook in batches

Dip each bread piece into the savory mixture, ensuring both sides are well-coated. Place the dipped bread in the pan without overcrowding. Cook until both sides are golden brown.

Serve immediately

Serve the Savory French Toast hot with optional garnishes like ketchup, chutney, or yogurt-based dipping sauces.

FAQ

What types of bread work best for savory French toast?

Sturdy bread like sourdough, ciabatta, or multigrain is recommended as it holds the savory mixture well without becoming soggy.

Can I make the mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the savory mixture a few hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and mix it well before use.

Can I add other vegetables or spices?

Absolutely! You can customize the recipe by adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or grated carrots, as well as spices like paprika or chili flakes.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free bread and confirm the other ingredients, such as seasonings and milk, are gluten-free.

Can I store leftovers?

While it’s best to serve the Savory French Toast fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet.

What is an alternative to milk in the recipe?

You can substitute regular milk with plant-based alternatives like almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk.

Conclusion

Savory French Toast is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a quick meal any time of the day. Its flavorful and customizable nature allows you to enjoy a satisfying dish while experimenting with various ingredients to suit your taste preferences. This comforting recipe is a must-try for both kids and adults who enjoy savory and wholesome meals.

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