French toast is often associated with sweet breakfasts, but there’s a savory side to this dish that’s just as satisfying. This easy savory French toast recipe replaces sugary toppings with herbs, garlic, and rich seasonings. It’s perfect for any meal, whether you’re preparing a hearty breakfast, hosting brunch, or crafting a simple yet delicious dinner.
If you’re wondering what bread works best, consider homemade challah bread for savory French toast. Stale bread is ideal because it soaks up the batter without becoming overly soft, creating a crispy exterior and tender interior.
Why Choose Savory French Toast?
Savoury french toast: a fine departure from the good old recipe. Instead of syrup and cinnamon, you would savor the rich flavors of parsley and thyme, with just a hint of garlic. It can easily be altered and customized to suit anyone’s flavor or dietary needs.
For those who love savory breakfasts, pairing this dish with a hearty side like the Southern Cornbread Casserole can create a filling and flavorful meal. Both dishes complement each other with their comforting textures and flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these simple ingredients for your savory French toast:
For the Batter
- 6 large eggs.
- 1 cup milk (almond, oat, or dairy milk work well).
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped.
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder.
- ½ teaspoon salt.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper.
For the Bread for Savory French Toast
- 8 slices of stale bread, such as challah, sourdough, or French bread.
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter for frying.
Optional Toppings for Savory French Toast
- Sliced avocado for creaminess.
- Fried or poached eggs for added protein.
- Crispy bacon or grated Parmesan for a salty, savory touch.
- Sautéed mushrooms or cherry tomato confit for a hearty topping.
How to Make it
Follow this detailed step-by-step guide to create the perfect savory French toast:
- Prepare the Batter
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, parsley, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-combined to coat the bread evenly.
- Dip the Bread
- Cut the bread into thick slices to hold up to the batter.
- Dip each slice into the mixture, allowing it to soak for 10–30 seconds, depending on its dryness.
- Cook the French Toast
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add butter or oil.
- Place the soaked bread in the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Repeat with the remaining slices, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
- Serve and Garnish
- Plate the cooked French toast and top with your favorite ingredients, such as avocado slices, fried eggs, or sautéed vegetables.
Tips for Perfect Savory French Toast
Here are a few tips to make your savory French toast stand out:
- Choose the Right Bread: Stale bread is less likely to break apart and absorbs the batter better.
- Control Heat: Cook over medium heat to achieve a crispy exterior without burning.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the herbs and garlic—they make all the difference.
- Experiment with Herbs: Swap parsley and thyme for basil, dill, or chives for variety.
For more inspiration, try adding sides like the Cheesy Cornbread Ground Beef Casserole, which pairs wonderfully with the herbaceous flavors of savory French toast.
Creative Topping Ideas
The beauty of savory French toast lies in its adaptability. Here are some topping ideas to elevate your meal:
- Classic Egg and Avocado
- Top the toast with sliced avocado and a fried egg with a runny yolk for a creamy, satisfying meal.
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Bacon and Parmesan
- Add crispy bacon crumbles and grated Parmesan cheese for a rich and salty flavor.
- Tomato and Mushroom Medley
- Sauté cherry tomatoes with garlic and olive oil, then pair them with mushrooms seasoned with thyme.
FAQs About Savory French Toast
- What type of bread works best?
Stale bread such as challah, sourdough, or French bread works best because it absorbs the batter without becoming too soft.
- Can you freeze savory French toast?
Yes! Cook the toast fully, let it cool, and wrap it in foil or plastic wrap. Freeze for up to two months. Reheat in a toaster or skillet for the best results.
- How can I keep French toast warm?
Place cooked slices on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven until ready to serve. Cover them lightly with foil to retain moisture.
- Is French toast actually French?
French toast, or pain perdu in French, translates to “lost bread.” It originated as a way to use stale bread and has roots in ancient Roman cuisine.
Serving Suggestions
Savory French toast can be served in many ways, making it perfect for any meal. Here are some ideas:
- Pair it with a fresh side salad for a light lunch.
- Serve alongside roasted vegetables for dinner.
- Add it to a brunch platter with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and capers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This easy savory French toast recipe is:
- Versatile: Great for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
- Simple: Made with everyday ingredients in just a few steps.
- Customizable: You can change the herbs, spices, and toppings to suit your taste.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or making a quick meal for yourself, savory French toast is sure to impress.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients:
- Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential vitamins.
- Herbs: Add antioxidants and fresh flavor without extra calories.
- Milk: A source of calcium and Vitamin D, especially if you use dairy.
- Whole Grain Bread: Offers fiber for better digestion.
Variations to Try
Here are some ways to change up the recipe:
- Gluten-Free Option
- Use gluten-free bread for those with dietary restrictions.
- Dairy-Free Option
- Substitute almond or oat milk and cook with olive oil instead of butter.
- Spicy French Toast
- To the batter to enhance its heat, take a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika.
Conclusion
Savory French toast takes a classic breakfast dish up to a whole new realm, with flavors so punchy, endless toppings beckon. It’s got that moist, crisp bread with herbs and any garnish going, to be good at any meal. Try it today; witness the magic that happens between casual breakfasts and fancy brunches. Pair it with dishes like the Southern Cornbread Casserole to create a truly memorable meal.