In legend, French toast evolved when food was dear and every bit had to be used – even stale bread. Ancient cooks found that dipping stale bread in a mixture of eggs and milk helped rejuvenate it. They then cooked it on a griddle and served it up, much like our modern version. Another version of this recipe was reserved only for the wealthiest people of the time, because it used expensive white bread and exotic (and costly) ingredients like vanilla and almonds.
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In legend, French toast evolved when food was dear and every bit had to be used – even stale bread. Ancient cooks found that dipping stale bread in a mixture of eggs and milk helped rejuvenate it. They then cooked it on a griddle and served it up, much like our modern version. Another version of this recipe was reserved only for the wealthiest people of the time, because it used expensive white bread and exotic (and costly) ingredients like vanilla and almonds.
So, what defines French toast recipes? The first thing to know is that French toast isn't really French at all! The first piece of bread to be soaked in egg batter and cooked seems to have originated in Rome. Today, just about every country around the globe has their own version of this classic breakfast food. And by the way, don't look for "French toast" on the menu in France because the French refer to it as "pain perdu."
Want a quick breakfast? Try freezing your French toast! After you dip it in the egg mixture, put the pieces on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer. After they freeze, individually wrap them in plastic wrap or foil and return them to the freezer. When you're ready to serve, preheat your oven to 500 degrees, unwrap, and place on a baking sheet sprayed with cooking spray. Bake for about 5 minutes or until done. What could be easier?
