What To Know
- The traditional French toast recipe calls for a simple batter of eggs, milk, sugar, and a touch of cinnamon.
- ” This dish is made with thick slices of bread soaked in a batter of eggs, milk, and soy sauce, then pan-fried until golden brown and served with a sweet and savoury sauce.
- Filipino cuisine features a savoury French toast called “torta,” which is made with slices of bread soaked in a batter of eggs, milk, and sometimes cheese.
The question of whether French toast is savoury or sweet has sparked countless debates in kitchens and breakfast tables around the world. This seemingly simple dish, a staple of brunch menus and weekend mornings, has the potential to be both comforting and controversial. While its traditional preparation leans heavily towards sweetness, the possibilities for savoury variations are endless, blurring the lines between sweet and savoury and challenging our preconceived notions of this beloved breakfast treat.
The Sweet Tradition of French Toast
French toast, as we know it today, is a dish deeply rooted in sweetness. Its origins can be traced back to ancient Roman times, where bread soaked in milk and eggs was a common way to use up stale bread. The addition of sugar and spices came later, with the dish evolving into the sweet treat we enjoy today.
The traditional French toast recipe calls for a simple batter of eggs, milk, sugar, and a touch of cinnamon. This batter is then poured over slices of bread, which are then pan-fried until golden brown and crispy on the outside, while remaining soft and custardy on the inside. The sweetness of the batter, combined with the crispy exterior and fluffy interior, creates a symphony of textures and flavours that are undeniably sweet.
The Savoury Revolution: Exploring New Flavour Profiles
While the sweet version of French toast reigns supreme in many kitchens, the culinary world has witnessed a growing interest in exploring its savoury potential. This shift towards savoury French toast is driven by a desire for new flavour profiles and a willingness to break away from traditional norms.
Savoury French toast often replaces the sweet batter with a mixture of savoury ingredients such as:
- Eggs and milk: These remain the base of the batter but are seasoned with herbs, spices, and even cheese.
- Broth: Using chicken, beef, or vegetable broth adds a depth of flavour and creates a more savory base for the batter.
- Cheese: Adding cheese, such as cheddar, parmesan, or even goat cheese, adds a salty and tangy element to the batter.
- Herbs and spices: Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and thyme, along with spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika, add complex savoury notes.
The Art of Savoury French Toast: A Culinary Exploration
The beauty of savoury French toast lies in its versatility. The basic ingredients can be easily adapted to create a wide range of flavour profiles, catering to different tastes and preferences.
Here are some ideas for incorporating savoury elements into your French toast:
- Mediterranean Twist: Combine a batter of eggs, milk, feta cheese, oregano, and garlic powder. Serve with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
- Spicy Kick: Use a batter of eggs, milk, sriracha, and cumin powder. Serve with a side of avocado and a dollop of sour cream.
- Cheesy Delight: Combine eggs, milk, cheddar cheese, and a pinch of paprika. Serve with a side of bacon and a fried egg.
- Herbed Delight: Use a batter of eggs, milk, fresh herbs like dill, chives, and parsley. Serve with a side of smoked salmon and a dollop of cream cheese.
Beyond the Plate: Savoury French Toast in Global Cuisine
The concept of savoury French toast is not entirely new. In various culinary traditions around the world, similar dishes exist, often with unique twists and interpretations.
- French Toast in Japan: Japanese cuisine features a savoury French toast called “French toast” or “French toast.” This dish is made with thick slices of bread soaked in a batter of eggs, milk, and soy sauce, then pan-fried until golden brown and served with a sweet and savoury sauce.
- French Toast in the Philippines: Filipino cuisine features a savoury French toast called “torta,” which is made with slices of bread soaked in a batter of eggs, milk, and sometimes cheese. It is then pan-fried until golden brown and served with a variety of savoury toppings, such as ground meat, vegetables, or cheese.
The Verdict: Is French Toast Savoury?
The answer to the question, “Is French toast savoury?” lies in the individual interpretation and preference of the diner. While the traditional French toast recipe is undeniably sweet, the culinary world is embracing the potential of savoury variations.
The key to creating a successful savoury French toast lies in balancing the flavours and textures. The batter should be seasoned with care to create a complex and satisfying flavour profile. The bread should be chosen carefully to complement the savoury ingredients. And finally, the toppings should be selected to enhance the overall flavour experience.
Beyond Sweet and Savoury: A Culinary Fusion
The debate over whether French toast is sweet or savoury is ultimately a matter of personal preference. But what is most exciting is the potential for culinary fusion, where sweet and savoury elements can be combined to create a truly unique and satisfying dish.
Imagine a French toast with a sweet and tangy glaze of maple syrup and balsamic vinegar, or a savoury French toast topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. The possibilities are endless, and the only limit is our imagination.
The Final Word: A Culinary Journey of Discovery
French toast, whether sweet or savoury, is a culinary journey of discovery. It is a dish that allows us to explore new flavour profiles, experiment with different ingredients, and create our own unique interpretations. So, the next time you find yourself pondering the question, “Is French toast savoury?” remember that the answer is ultimately up to you. Embrace the possibilities, explore the different variations, and discover your own personal favourite way to enjoy this beloved breakfast classic.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
1. Can I use sourdough bread for savoury French toast?
Absolutely! Sourdough bread with its tangy flavour and dense texture can be a great choice for savoury French toast. It pairs well with cheesy or herbed batters.
2. What are some good toppings for savoury French toast?
Savoury French toast can be topped with a variety of ingredients to enhance the flavour profile. Some popular options include:
- Cheese: Cheddar, mozzarella, parmesan, goat cheese.
- Meat: Bacon, sausage, ham, chorizo.
- Vegetables: Spinach, mushrooms, onions, tomatoes.
- Herbs: Parsley, chives, dill, thyme.
- Sauces: Hollandaise sauce, pesto, salsa, sriracha.
3. Is there a specific type of bread that works best for savoury French toast?
While any bread can be used, thicker slices of bread with a good crumb structure, like brioche or challah, work well for soaking up the batter and holding their shape during cooking.
4. Can I make savoury French toast ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter and soak the bread ahead of time. However, it’s best to pan-fry the French toast just before serving for optimal texture and flavour.
