Haitian French Toast

Haitian French Toast Recipe: A Delicious Fusion of France & Haiti

Region / culture: France, Haiti | Preparation time: overnight | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Haitian French Toast is a delicious and unique twist on the classic breakfast dish. This recipe combines the flavors of orange juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg to create a flavorful and satisfying meal that is perfect for any time of day.

History

Haitian French Toast is a popular dish in Haiti, where it is often served as a special treat for breakfast or brunch. The recipe has been passed down through generations and is a beloved staple in Haitian cuisine.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) loaf french bread
1 cup orange juice
0.5 cup whipping cream
2 large eggs
1 tsp ground cinnamon
0.25 cup sugar
dash of nutmeg
3 tbsp butter
powdered sugar
maple sugar

How to prepare

Cut the ends off the loaf of bread and set them aside.
Slice the remaining loaf into 1.5 inch thick slices and let them sit uncovered for 4 hours to overnight.
In a 9x13" pan, combine orange juice, cream, eggs, cinnamon, sugar, and nutmeg.
Using a wire whisk, whisk the mixture until well blended.
Place the bread slices in the pan.
Turn the slices several times until they have absorbed all the liquid, which should take about 3–5 minutes.
Melt the butter in a 12" to 14" frying pan over medium heat.
Place the soaked bread slices into the frying pan.
Cook the slices, turning them as needed, until they are richly browned on both sides, which should take about 5 minutes.
Dust the slices with powdered sugar.

Variations

For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding a splash of rum to the orange juice mixture for a boozy and flavorful kick. You can also experiment with different spices, such as cardamom or ginger, to create a unique and delicious dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure that your Haitian French Toast turns out perfectly, be sure to let the bread slices sit uncovered for at least 4 hours before soaking them in the orange juice mixture. This will allow the bread to absorb the flavors and create a deliciously moist and flavorful dish.

Serving Suggestions

Haitian French Toast can be served with a drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a sweet and indulgent treat. Fresh fruit, such as berries or sliced bananas, can also be served on the side for a refreshing and nutritious addition.

Cooking Techniques

To ensure that your Haitian French Toast is cooked evenly and thoroughly, be sure to turn the slices as needed while cooking to ensure that they are browned on both sides. Cooking the toast over medium heat will help to prevent burning and ensure that it is cooked through.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have French bread on hand, you can use any type of bread that you have available, such as brioche or challah. You can also substitute the orange juice with any other type of fruit juice for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the orange juice mixture and soak the bread slices in advance to save time in the morning. Simply cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, then cook the French toast as directed in the morning.

Presentation Ideas

To make your Haitian French Toast look extra special, try stacking the slices on a plate and dusting them with powdered sugar for a beautiful and elegant presentation. You can also garnish with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Haitian French Toast pairs well with a variety of beverages, such as coffee, tea, or orange juice. For a complete meal, serve with a side of bacon or sausage and a fresh fruit salad for a balanced and satisfying breakfast or brunch.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Haitian French Toast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place the slices in a toaster oven or microwave until warmed through, then serve with your favorite toppings.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Haitian French Toast contains approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying and filling meal that is perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Haitian French Toast contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates, making it a filling and satisfying meal that will keep you energized throughout the day.

Fats

With approximately 15 grams of fat per serving, Haitian French Toast is a rich and indulgent dish that is perfect for a special occasion or weekend brunch.

Proteins

Each serving of Haitian French Toast contains approximately 10 grams of protein, making it a balanced and nutritious meal that will keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Vitamins and minerals

Haitian French Toast is a good source of vitamin C, thanks to the orange juice in the recipe. It also contains essential minerals such as calcium and iron, making it a nutritious and wholesome meal.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (whipping cream, eggs, butter) and wheat (French bread), so it may not be suitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Haitian French Toast is a delicious and satisfying meal that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals and is a filling and nutritious option for breakfast or brunch.

Summary

Haitian French Toast is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for breakfast or brunch. With a rich and indulgent flavor profile, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your household. Enjoy this unique twist on a classic dish and savor the delicious flavors of Haiti in every bite.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Haitian French Toast. It was given to me by a dear friend who had recently returned from a trip to Haiti, and she raved about the delicious breakfast dish she had tried while she was there. As someone who has always loved trying new foods and experimenting in the kitchen, I was eager to give it a try.

The recipe called for a few ingredients that were unfamiliar to me, such as Haitian breadfruit and cane sugar. I had never cooked with breadfruit before, but I was excited to learn something new. I went to the local market to search for these ingredients, and after some searching, I was able to find everything I needed. The breadfruit had a unique texture and flavor that I had never experienced before, and I couldn't wait to see how it would taste in the French toast.

I began by slicing the breadfruit into thick slices and dipping them in a mixture of eggs, milk, and cinnamon. I then fried them in a pan until they were golden brown and crispy on the outside. The smell that filled my kitchen was incredible – warm and sweet, with a hint of spice from the cinnamon. I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

When I took my first bite of the Haitian French Toast, I was blown away. The breadfruit was soft and creamy on the inside, with a slightly sweet flavor that paired perfectly with the cinnamon and sugar. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before – a perfect blend of sweet and savory, with a hint of exotic flavor that transported me to the streets of Haiti.

I shared the Haitian French Toast with my family, and they were equally impressed. They couldn't believe that I had cooked something so delicious and unique. My grandchildren begged me to make it for them again and again, and it quickly became a family favorite.

Over the years, I have made the Haitian French Toast countless times, each time tweaking the recipe slightly to suit my tastes. Sometimes I add a bit of vanilla extract to the egg mixture, or sprinkle some toasted coconut on top for extra crunch. No matter how I make it, though, the dish always brings back memories of that first time I tried it – the sense of wonder and excitement that comes with discovering something new and delicious.

I am grateful to my friend for introducing me to this wonderful recipe, and to the people of Haiti for creating such a delicious dish. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with different cultures and experiences, and the Haitian French Toast is a perfect example of that. It's a reminder that food has the power to bring people together, no matter where they come from or what language they speak.

As I sit here in my kitchen, preparing another batch of Haitian French Toast for my family, I can't help but feel grateful for all the wonderful recipes and experiences that have come into my life. Cooking has always been my passion, and I am so thankful for the opportunity to share that passion with the people I love. And who knows what other culinary adventures await me in the future – I can't wait to see what new recipes I discover next.