What To Know
- A sprinkle of parmesan, a dollop of ricotta, or even a slice of brie can add a savory and cheesy touch to your French toast.
- Crispy bacon bits or a slice of bacon on the side offer a smoky and salty contrast to the sweetness of the French toast.
- A warm and comforting fruit compote, made with berries, apples, or pears, adds a touch of sweetness and depth to your French toast.
French toast, that golden-brown, fluffy delight, is a breakfast classic for a reason. But while the base is timeless, the possibilities for what to serve with French toast are endless. This guide will explore a world of delicious accompaniments, taking your French toast from simple to spectacular.
Sweet and Savory: The French Toast Spectrum
Before we dive into specifics, it’s important to understand the versatile nature of French toast. It can be a sweet treat or a savory delight, offering a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.
Sweet French Toast: This is the classic approach, featuring syrupy sweetness and often paired with fruit. Think maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, and even a drizzle of chocolate.
Savory French Toast: This option embraces a more robust flavor profile, using ingredients like savory sauces, cheese, and even meats. Imagine a creamy béchamel sauce, a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, or even a crispy bacon crumble.
The Classic Companions: Sweet Sides for French Toast
For those who prefer a sugary start to their day, these classic sweet pairings will satisfy your cravings:
1. Syrup: This is the quintessential French toast companion, adding a rich, sweet element. Explore different varieties like maple, honey, agave, or even flavored syrups like pecan or caramel.
2. Fruit: Fresh fruit adds a burst of flavor and vitamins. Berries, bananas, peaches, and melons are all excellent choices. You can serve them whole, sliced, or even in a compote.
3. Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a touch of indulgence and creaminess. For a twist, try flavored whipped cream like vanilla, chocolate, or even a hint of coffee.
4. Powdered Sugar: A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds a delicate sweetness and a touch of elegance.
5. Chocolate Sauce: For a decadent touch, drizzle a thin layer of chocolate sauce over your French toast.
6. Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream is a delightful addition, especially for a warm French toast dish.
Savory Delights: Elevate Your French Toast with Unique Pairings
If you’re looking for a more substantial and flavorful experience, these savory accompaniments will transform your French toast:
1. Savory Sauces: Embrace a creamy béchamel sauce, a tangy hollandaise, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.
2. Cheese: A sprinkle of parmesan, a dollop of ricotta, or even a slice of brie can add a savory and cheesy touch to your French toast.
3. Bacon: Crispy bacon bits or a slice of bacon on the side offer a smoky and salty contrast to the sweetness of the French toast.
4. Sautéed Mushrooms: Earthy and flavorful, sautéed mushrooms add a savory dimension to your French toast.
5. Spinach: Wilted spinach adds a touch of freshness and a healthy boost to your breakfast.
6. Eggs: A fried egg or scrambled eggs can create a hearty and satisfying meal with your French toast.
Beyond the Basics: Creative French Toast Pairings
For those who enjoy pushing the boundaries of culinary creativity, here are some unique and unexpected pairings for your French toast:
1. Spicy Sriracha Syrup: A sweet and spicy twist, this homemade syrup combines the heat of sriracha with the sweetness of maple syrup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Add a colorful and flavorful element with roasted vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini.
3. Avocado Toast: Combine the creamy goodness of avocado toast with your French toast for a unique and satisfying breakfast.
4. Smoked Salmon: For a luxurious brunch, top your French toast with smoked salmon and a dollop of cream cheese.
5. Fruit Compote: A warm and comforting fruit compote, made with berries, apples, or pears, adds a touch of sweetness and depth to your French toast.
French Toast: A Culinary Canvas
The beauty of French toast lies in its versatility. It can be a simple breakfast treat or a sophisticated brunch dish, depending on your preferences and the ingredients you choose. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect French toast pairing.
What You Need to Learn
1. Can I serve French toast with both sweet and savory ingredients?
Absolutely! Many people enjoy the combination of sweet and savory flavors. For example, you could serve your French toast with maple syrup and a sprinkle of bacon bits.
2. What are some good drinks to pair with French toast?
Orange juice, apple cider, coffee, and even a mimosa are all excellent choices.
3. Can I make French toast ahead of time?
Yes, you can make French toast ahead of time and reheat it. Simply store the cooked French toast in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven or toaster oven.
4. What are some tips for making the best French toast?
Use good quality bread, soak it in the egg mixture for just the right amount of time, and cook it over medium heat.
5. What are some other variations on French toast?
You can experiment with different types of bread, like challah, brioche, or even croissants. You can also add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the batter.
