Background and History
French toast, also known as “pain perdu” in French, has a long history dating back to ancient Rome. Traditionally, it is made by soaking bread in a mixture of eggs and milk, then frying it until golden brown. This version elevates the classic dish by incorporating tangy feta cheese and a rich spiced honey syrup, adding a unique Mediterranean twist. The combination of savory and sweet flavors makes this dish a delightful choice for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
For the French Toast
- 4 slices of thick bread (such as brioche or challah)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Butter or oil for frying
For the Spiced Honey Syrup
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 tablespoon water
Useful and Interesting Facts
- Feta Cheese: Feta adds a savory and slightly tangy flavor, balancing the sweetness of the honey syrup.
- Versatility: This dish can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or even as a dessert.
- Nutritional Value: Feta cheese provides protein and calcium, while the honey syrup adds antioxidants and natural sweetness.
Instructions
Serves
2
Time
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time
10 minutes
Ingredients
For the French Toast
- 4 slices of thick bread
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Butter or oil for frying
For the Spiced Honey Syrup
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 tablespoon water
Instruction
Prepare the Syrup
In a small saucepan, combine honey, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and water. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warm and well combined. Keep warm.
Mix the Batter
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Soak the Bread
Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are well coated. Let the bread soak for a few seconds to absorb the mixture.
Add Feta Cheese
Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese onto one side of each soaked bread slice, pressing gently to adhere.
Heat the Pan
In a large skillet, heat butter or oil over medium heat until melted and hot.
Cook the French Toast
Place the bread slices in the skillet, feta side up. Cook until golden brown on the bottom, about 3-4 minutes. Flip carefully and cook the other side until golden brown, another 2-3 minutes.
Serve
Transfer the French toast to serving plates. Drizzle with the warm spiced honey syrup.
Garnish
Optionally, garnish with additional crumbled feta, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or fresh fruit.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 500mg
Notes
- Bread Choice: Thick slices of brioche or challah work best for this recipe.
- Syrup: The spiced honey syrup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Warm it up before serving.
- Toppings: Fresh berries, a dollop of yogurt, or a sprinkle of nuts can add extra texture and flavor.
Allergy Warning
- Eggs: This recipe contains eggs, which may be allergenic to some individuals.
- Dairy: The recipe includes feta cheese and milk. Use dairy-free alternatives for a lactose-free version.
- Honey: Honey should not be given to children under one year old due to the risk of botulism.
Enjoy the delightful combination of savory feta cheese and sweet spiced honey syrup in this unique twist on classic French toast!
What can I put on French toast instead of maple syrup?
You can put a variety of toppings on French toast instead of maple syrup, such as fresh fruit, yogurt, honey, nut butter, or even savory options like avocado and smoked salmon.
Do people eat French toast with syrup?
Yes, many people enjoy French toast with syrup, typically maple syrup, as it adds a sweet and rich flavor that complements the dish.
Should French toast be sweet or savoury?
French toast can be both sweet or savory, depending on the toppings and seasonings used. Traditional sweet versions include toppings like fruit and syrup, while savory versions might feature cheese, herbs, or meats.
What do you soak French toast in?
French toast is typically soaked in a mixture of beaten eggs, milk, and seasonings such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract before being cooked.
Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
Yes, honey can be used as an alternative to maple syrup on French toast, providing a different but equally delicious sweetness.
What is the most common mistake in making French toast?
The most common mistake in making French toast is not soaking the bread long enough or using bread that is too fresh, which can result in uneven texture and flavor.
What is the trick to making good French toast?
The trick to making good French toast is using slightly stale, thick-cut bread and allowing it to soak thoroughly in the egg mixture. Cooking it on medium heat ensures it cooks through without burning.
Is it OK to eat French toast everyday?
While French toast can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, eating it every day, especially with high-sugar toppings, may not be ideal due to its calorie and sugar content.
Why is French toast soggy?
French toast can become soggy if the bread is soaked for too long, if the egg mixture is too thin, or if it’s cooked on too low of a heat, preventing it from forming a crisp exterior.
What makes French toast unhealthy?
French toast can be unhealthy if made with excessive sugar, high-fat ingredients, and fried in a lot of butter or oil. Using whole-grain bread, minimal sugar, and cooking with healthy fats can make it a more nutritious option.
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