What is Masala French Toast and how is it different from regular French toast?

Masala French Toast is an Indian-style savory toast made by dipping bread slices in a spicy egg mixture containing ingredients like turmeric, garam masala, onions, and green chilies, then pan-frying them. Unlike the sweet version of French toast, which is dipped in a cinnamon and sugar egg batter, Masala French Toast is spicy and flavorful, often served as a snack or light meal. It’s commonly enjoyed with chutneys, ketchup, or hot beverages like chai.

What type of bread is best for making Masala French Toast?

Thick bread slices around ¾ to 1 inch thick work best for Masala French Toast. Slightly stale or day-old bread is preferred because it holds up better when dipped in the egg mixture without becoming soggy or falling apart. Avoid very soft, fresh bread as it tends to disintegrate during cooking.

Can I make Masala French Toast without using traditional Indian spices like garam masala?

Yes, if you are not familiar with Indian spices, you can substitute garam masala with allspice or steak seasoning to approximate the flavor. Instead of coriander leaves, parsley makes a suitable substitute. This allows for a similar taste profile while accommodating different spice preferences or ingredient availability.

How long should I soak the bread in the egg mixture for Masala French Toast?

For a slightly crispy exterior with a soft, custard-like interior, soak the bread slices in the egg mixture for about 1 to 2 minutes. Soaking too briefly may make the inside less flavorful, while soaking too long can cause the bread to become overly soggy and difficult to handle.

What are some popular ways to serve Masala French Toast?

Masala French Toast is best served hot, often garnished with a sprinkle of chaat masala for an extra tangy kick. It pairs well with green chutney, ketchup, or a dollop of yogurt. It is also commonly enjoyed with hot beverages such as chai, filter coffee, or tea, making it a perfect snack or breakfast option.

Masala French Toast Recipe With Spicy Savory Flavor

Name: Masala French Toast
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: – 4 thick bread slices (¾ to 1 inch thickness, day-old recommended); – 2 medium eggs; – ¼ cup milk; – 2 to 3 tablespoons finely chopped onions, shallots, or green onions; – 1 to 2 green chilies, chopped (optional, deseeded for less heat); – 2 tablespoons finely chopped coriander leaves or herbs; – ⅓ teaspoon garam masala; – ⅓ teaspoon roasted cumin powder; – ⅓ teaspoon salt, adjustable to taste; – ⅛ teaspoon turmeric powder; – ¼ to 1 teaspoon red chili flakes, adjustable to taste; – 4 tablespoons mint chutney or hot sauce or pesto (optional); – 1½ tablespoons unsalted butter; – ¼ teaspoon chaat masala for sprinkling when serving (optional)

Ingredients

– 4 thick bread slices (¾ to 1 inch thickness, day-old recommended)

– 2 medium eggs

– ¼ cup milk

– 2 to 3 tablespoons finely chopped onions, shallots, or green onions

– 1 to 2 green chilies, chopped (optional, deseeded for less heat)

– 2 tablespoons finely chopped coriander leaves or herbs

– ⅓ teaspoon garam masala

– ⅓ teaspoon roasted cumin powder

– ⅓ teaspoon salt, adjustable to taste

– ⅛ teaspoon turmeric powder

– ¼ to 1 teaspoon red chili flakes, adjustable to taste

– 4 tablespoons mint chutney or hot sauce or pesto (optional)

– 1½ tablespoons unsalted butter

– ¼ teaspoon chaat masala for sprinkling when serving (optional)

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Instructions

1-First, in a mixing bowl, break 2 medium eggs and add ¼ cup milk, 2 to 3 tablespoons finely chopped onions, 1 to 2 chopped green chilies (if using), 2 tablespoons finely chopped coriander leaves, ⅛ teaspoon turmeric powder, ¼ to 1 teaspoon red chili flakes, ⅓ teaspoon roasted cumin powder, ⅓ teaspoon garam masala, and ⅓ teaspoon salt. Whisk until the mixture is frothy and well combined.

2-Optionally, spread 4 tablespoons mint chutney, hot sauce, or pesto on one side of each of the 4 thick bread slices to boost the flavor.

3-Heat a non-stick pan with 1½ tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat, ensuring even coverage for golden results.

4-Dip each bread slice briefly into the egg mixture, coating both sides and shaking off any excess to avoid sogginess.

5-Place the coated slices in the pan and cook on medium heat until one side is golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes, then flip and cook the other side similarly, pressing gently for even cooking.

6-For a custardy texture, spoon extra egg mixture onto the slices while they cook. Once done, remove from the pan, sprinkle with ¼ teaspoon chaat masala if desired, and serve hot.

Notes

🍞 Use day-old thick bread slices to prevent sogginess.
🌶️ Adding chutney or hot sauce before dipping enhances flavor but is optional.
🌿 Mint chutney can be made by blending mint or cilantro with roasted peanuts, cumin powder, chaat masala, salt, lemon juice, garlic, and water.

Author: Brandi Oshea
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Snack
Method: Pan-frying
Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 slices
Calories: 376
Sugar: 6 grams
Sodium: 1222 milligrams
Fat: 21 grams
Saturated Fat: 10 grams
Carbohydrates: 33 grams
Fiber: 4 grams
Protein: 13 grams
Cholesterol: 197 milligrams