Malagasy-Style French Toast

Ingredients

In the original Hong Kong-style French Toast, the bread is typically filled with peanut butter and condensed milk, then deep-fried. However, in this Malagasy adaptation, the focus is on the flavors of vanilla, cinnamon, and a hint of chili powder. The bread is soaked in an egg mixture and pan-fried instead of deep-frying. These changes create a different taste profile that reflects the culinary traditions of Madagascar. We alse have the original recipe for Hong Kong-Style French Toast, so you can check it out.

• 4 slices of bread 4 slices of bread
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup (60ml) milk 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
• Butter or oil for frying Butter or oil for frying
• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional) Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
• Maple syrup or honey, for serving Maple syrup or honey, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 36g, 8g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon.
2. 2.
   Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for a few seconds on each side.
3. 3.
   Heat a frying pan over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil.
4. 4.
   Place the soaked bread slices in the pan and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. 5.
   Remove the French toast from the pan and sprinkle a pinch of chili powder over each slice.
6. 6.
   Serve the Malagasy-Style French Toast warm, dusted with powdered sugar if desired, and drizzled with maple syrup or honey.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Bread — Use thick slices of bread, such as brioche or challah, to ensure a soft and custardy interior.
• Chili powder — Adjust the amount of chili powder according to your preference for spiciness. You can omit it entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra indulgent twist, spread a layer of vanilla-flavored cream cheese between the bread slices before dipping them in the egg mixture.
• Serve the French toast with fresh fruit, such as sliced bananas or berries, for a refreshing contrast to the sweet and spicy flavors.
• If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can add a tablespoon of sugar to the egg mixture.
• To make the French toast extra crispy, use stale bread instead of fresh bread.
• Experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg or cardamom, to customize the flavor profile to your liking.

Serving advice

Serve the Malagasy-Style French Toast warm, dusted with powdered sugar if desired, and drizzled with maple syrup or honey. Pair it with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast experience.

Presentation advice

Arrange the French toast slices on a plate, sprinkle them with powdered sugar, and drizzle the syrup or honey in an artistic pattern. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of cinnamon for an elegant touch.