Savory Herb French Toast

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When it comes to breakfast, people often think of sweet — pancakes, waffles, and sugary cereals dominate the morning scene. But what if I told you there’s a delightful twist waiting just around the corner? Savory herb French toast is that twist.

Believe me, it is worth talking about. Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, cheesy piece of French toast infused with fragrant herbs. I’d say it’s the breakfast that allows you to step into a whole new flavor dimension.

What to Pair with Savory Herb French Toast?

Savory herb French toast pairs beautifully with a multitude of sides that complement its rich flavors. Here are a few suggestions:

Fresh Fruit Salad: A light touch of sweetness can balance the herbs perfectly. Chopped fruits like strawberries, melon, and blueberries work beautifully.
Crispy Bacon or Sausage: The salty crunch enhances the French toast. Add some crispy strips of bacon or spicy sausage links for a hearty meal.
Eggs Any Style: For a well-rounded breakfast, serve with fried eggs, scrambled eggs, or a perfectly poached egg on the side, letting those yolks run beautifully over the savory delights.

Sautéed Greens: A simple sauté of spinach or kale brings a nutritious and vibrant element to your plate.
Creamy Avocado: Slices of creamy avocado add a luscious touch. You can sprinkle some salt and pepper for an extra punch.

Now that we’ve set the scene for our breakfast adventure, let’s dive deeper.

I grew up around tables filled with delicious food. My family’s gatherings often revolved around a hearty breakfast. It didn’t take long before I decided to take the familiar concept of French toast and give it a spin.

Savory herb French toast became my go-to dish for brunches with friends and family. There’s something so fulfilling about watching someone take their first bite, their expression transforming from curiosity to pure delight.

This dish defies expectations. It breaks away from the traditional sweet offerings while still providing comfort and warmth. Let’s explore the details of this dish together!

What is Savory Herb French Toast?

Savory herb French toast is a delicious take on the classic sweet version. It involves soaking slices of bread in a mixture of eggs, cream, and herbs. The key? Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and thyme, along with a generous sprinkle of cheese.

Instead of maple syrup, you get a depth of flavor that tantalizes the taste buds. This dish can be easily served at brunch or even for a cozy dinner.

How Does It Taste Like?

Upon your first bite, you’ll notice a delightful crunch from the outer layer. The inside remains soft and creamy, with melted cheese offering a savory punch. The herbs dance on your palate, weaving together hints of lemon and earthy green notes. Think of it as a complex flavor profile that still manages to feel like a warm hug. You’ll experience umami from the cheese, and if you add a touch of balsamic onion jam, a delightful sweetness comes through, harmonizing the whole experience.

Why You’ll Love This?

You’ll love savory herb French toast for several reasons:

Versatility at Its Best: The recipe can be adapted to your tastes. Add different herbs or cheeses. Swap out the bread for gluten-free options if needed.
Quick Preparation: It’s easy to throw together ingredients you probably have at home. Brunch should be fun, not a chore.

Visual Appeal: This dish looks stunning, making it perfect for impressing guests. Beautifully browned French toast topped with fresh herbs garnished just right.
Balanced Meal: It’s filling but still on the lighter side for breakfast, providing you with the energy to go about your day.

Ingredients

For the Balsamic Onion Jam:

1 tablespoon dark brown sugar

1 tablespoon aged balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon unsalted butter
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
1 small red onion, finely chopped

For the Savory French Toast:

1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard

3 whole eggs
1/2 teaspoon garlic and herb seasoning blend
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh herbs (like lemon thyme, parsley, chives, and sage)

4 slices artisan-style bread
1/2 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup heavy cream

Butter, for pan-sautéing

Step by Step Directions

Step 1: Create the Balsamic Onion Jam

Start by heating olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until they become soft, about 5 minutes.

Once the onions are translucent, sprinkle in the brown sugar and stir until it melts and coats the onions. Pour in the balsamic vinegar and allow it to simmer for another 5 minutes. If you like a hint of heat, toss in red pepper flakes. Set the jam aside, and make sure to keep it warm.

Step 2: Prepare the Savory Egg Mixture

In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream. Add the Dijon mustard, garlic and herb seasoning, and chopped fresh herbs. This will create a fragrant mixture bursting with flavors.

Step 3: Soak the Bread

Preheat your skillet over medium-low heat with a generous pat of butter. Take a slice of the artisan bread and dip it into the egg mixture. Make sure both sides are coated but not dripping excessively. Place it gently on the skillet.

Step 4: Cooking the French Toast

Cook each slice for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. After flipping, sprinkle a bit of Parmesan cheese on top, allowing it to melt and create a delicious crust.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, serve the toast warm, drizzled with balsamic onion jam and extra herbs for a pop of color.

Tips on Making Savory Herb French Toast

Use Stale Bread: Slightly stale or day-old bread soaks up the egg mixture better without falling apart.
Egg-cessive Flavors: Feel free to experiment with flavors in your egg mixture. Adding a touch of ricotta or cream cheese can elevate the creaminess.

Keep it Cheesy: Don’t skimp on the cheese. Try mixing different types for a more complex flavor. Gruyère or feta can add great depth.
Fresh Herbs Only: Dried herbs won’t provide the same freshness or punch. Stick to fresh when possible!
Cooking in Batches: If preparing for a group, keep the cooked toast warm in the oven while you finish frying the rest.

Nutrition Information

A serving of savory herb French toast provides a delightful mix of nutrients. Here’s a breakdown per serving (4 slices):

This dish is high in protein due to the eggs and cheese while providing healthy fats for energy.

How Do You Store This Savory Herb French Toast?

If you’re looking to store your leftovers, simply cool them to room temperature. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can reheat them in the toaster or on the skillet, ensuring they stay crispy. However, they are best enjoyed fresh!

What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Savory Herb French Toast?

Egg Substitute: Use aquafaba (the liquid from chickpeas) to replace eggs, making this dish vegan-friendly while still keeping it delicious.
Bread Options: Explore gluten-free bread or even a hearty rye for different flavors.
Herb Variations: Basil or oregano can give a Mediterranean twist. Try experimenting!

Cheese Alternatives: Substitute regular Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option that adds an umami flavor.
Cream Alternatives: Use coconut cream or almond milk for lighter versions that still taste rich.

Savory Herb French Toast

When it comes to breakfast, people often think of sweet — pancakes, waffles, and sugary cereals dominate the morning scene

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Servings

Calories 346 kcal

Equipment

Skillet

Saucepan