Is French Toast Good For You?

Bonjour les amis,

Do you know the expression “avoir une Madeleine de Proust” in French?

It means to feel an element that triggers a happy childhood memory.

(That’s why French is so different from other romance languages.)

French toast (“PAIN PERDU” in french = “LOST BREAD) does exactly that for me: “une madeleine de Proust”.

It takes me back to Alsace, my native region in France, to my grandmother’s kitchen table at snack time.

I don’t know if you could feel the same way I do, but is french good for you?

I want to believe it…

Have a nice day!

— Chrisitine

how not to spoil food?

the true story of French toast

The origins of French toast trace back to the Roman Empire, specifically in the work of Apicius, a Roman cookbook.

It was known as “aliter dulcia” meaning “another sweet dish.”

Later, during the Middle Ages, the French embraced and adapted this dish, calling it “pain perdu” or “lost bread” as it utilized stale bread that would have otherwise gone to waste.

This humble dish eventually spread throughout Europe, each region adding its unique touch, and its popularity endures to this day.

It’s uncredible! one of our famous recipe comes fron Italy 🙂

one recipe among many others

I give you a simple French toast recipe in just a few steps:

Ingredients:

• 8 slices of stale bread
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• Butter for frying
• Optional toppings: maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh fruit

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Heat a non-stick frying pan or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter.
3. Dip each slice of bread in the egg mixture, letting excess drip off.
4. Fry each slice for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve warm with your choice of toppings.

particularities according to the regions of france

French toast indeed has various names and regional variations throughout France.

Here are five examples with the french name to start and with their culinary particularities:

• Pain doré (Golden Bread) – Common in Northern France.

It is similar to “pain perdu” but often contains a higher ratio of eggs, giving it a richer, more golden appearance.

It is also typically served with a fruit topping or a sprinkle of sugar.

• Pain à la Romaine (Roman-style Bread) – A nod to its Roman origins.

This version from the South of France may include orange blossom water or zest, adding a fragrant touch to the dish.

• Pain crotté (Crusted Bread) – In some regions.

It makes with day-old brioche or challah wich used instead of regular bread.

The result is a more luxurious and tender French toast with a slightly sweet flavor.

• Pain merveilleux (Wonderful Bread) – In Eastern France.

This version features a dash of rum or brandy in the soaking mixture, adding a warm and slightly boozy note to the dish.

• Pain Moinillon (Monk’s Bread) – In the Western regions of France, like in Britanny, the land of the sea.

This variation of French toast is often prepared with a denser, darker bread, such as pain d’épices or gingerbread.

The bread is soaked in a mixture of eggs, milk, and sugar, then pan-fried until crispy.

This version has a distinct flavor profile, with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, making it a delightful twist on the traditional dish.

Each of these regional variations highlights the adaptability and creativity of French cuisine, as they all put their unique spin on this classic dish.

3 reasons to be tempted

1. “mon ami”, let’s talk about flavor

Tasting French toast is like taking a trip to France without leaving your kitchen. 

As you bite into that crispy exterior, “tu sens” the sweetness of the custard-soaked bread melting in your mouth. 

The combination of cinnamon, vanilla, and maple syrup creates an irresistible symphony of taste. 

You deserve to treat yourself to this delicious dish.

2. “mon cher”, consider the versatility of French toast

Tu peux easily adapt it to your own taste and dietary preferences. 

Vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free? 

Pas de problème!

Swap out ingredients, add fresh fruit, or experiment with spices.

French toast is a canvas for your culinary creativity.

3. “mon petit”, let’s not forget the joy of sharing

French toast is a dish that brings people together. 

When “tu prépares” this delicious breakfast, “tu invites” loved ones to gather around the table, creating a moment of warmth and connection.

French people love spending time together around good meal and famous wines.

With my grandmother, I did not drink wine of course but rather a hot chocolat, a traditional drink for children in my region.

So, my friends, let you embrace the tradition of French toast and savor the taste of togetherness.

Let you embark on a journey to the enchanting world of French toast and experience the romance, history, and culinary artistry it has to offer.

3 reasons not to eat too much of it

1. let’s addres the “syrup situation.”

It’s no secret that French toast and maple syrup are best friends, but let’s be honest – they’re also partners in crime when it comes to calories! 

So, if you’re watching your waistline, maybe swap out that bottle of syrup for a fruit compote or a light drizzle of honey instead.

2. What soak up?

French toast loves to “soak up the attention” but unfortunately, it also soaks up plenty of eggs, milk, sugar and butter. 

These ingredients can be heavy on fats and cholesterol. 

So, when your French toast is begging for a dip in the pool, remember that too much of a good thing can quickly become a calorie cannonball!

3.  sweet, sweet sugar

As tempting as it is to cover your French toast in a snowy blanket of powdered sugar or a generous dollop of whipped cream, remember that your teeth and pancreas might not be as enthusiastic. 

A little sugar goes a long way, so save the avalanche for the ski slopes and opt for a lighter touch on your plate.

Conclusion

Enjoy your French toast, but always remember that moderation is key.

let us appreciate the rich history of French toast, a dish that has delighted taste buds for centuries and qui nous rappelent les saveurs de notre enfance.

But be carefull, as the saying goes, “a moment on the lips, a lifetime on the hips!” :))

People also asked about French Toast :

What is healthier French toast or pancakes?

French toast and pancakes both have their merits.

French toast can be healthier when made with whole-grain bread, egg whites, and skim milk.

Pancakes, typically made from refined flour, can be less nutritious.

Choosing whole-grain pancakes and mindful toppings can make either option a healthy choice.

Does French toast have a lot of fat?

French toast’s fat content depends on preparation.

Using whole-grain bread, egg whites, and skim milk can reduce fat, while butter and whole eggs increase it.

Toppings also influence overall fat content.

Moderation and healthy choices can keep fat in check

Is French toast good for breakfast or lunch?

French toast can be enjoyed for both breakfast and lunch, depending on your preferences and dietary needs.

For lunch, consider adding lean protein and vegetables to create a balanced meal.

Remember to monitor portion sizes and choose healthful ingredients to maintain a nutritious diet.