Fluffy, sweet, and slightly crispy — there’s an enchanting allure that French toast brings to breakfast. It’s a dish that can easily evoke feelings of comfort and nostalgia. But what’s the secret to crafting the perfect French toast? We delved into the minds of two acclaimed chefs during the New York City Wine & Food Fest at the Seaport in October, and discover that their top choice for bread was strikingly unanimous: challah. Ayesha Nurdjaja, the head chef at Shuka, and Maayan Glass, executive chef at 12 Chairs Cafe, both swear by this wonderfully pillowy bread for their tasty breakfast creation.
Maayan Glass emphasizes that the choice of bread is crucial to the overall success of the dish. “What really matters is the bread that you’re using,” he explains. “We’re using challah bread. It’s fluffier and really delicious.” This simple truth can elevate your breakfast from ordinary to extraordinary, making all the difference in texture and flavor.
Ayesha Nurdjaja concurs, adding that while the quality of the bread holds immense importance, the soaking time is imperative for achieving the perfect result. She suggests a soaking time of at least five minutes, but preferably not exceeding 20 minutes. “You just want to feel that when you push down, you can see the custard kind of pull out from it,” she advises. This meticulous technique allows for a rich custARD infusion that permeates through the bread, creating the desired fluffiness.
More Expert Tips for Top-Notch French Toast
While starting with excellent challah sets a solid base, there are plenty of ways to elevate your French toast game. Consider experimenting with different dairy options for a creamier custard. A fantastic combination is using both milk and heavy cream, or if you’re in a luxurious mood, opt for straight-up heavy cream. For a truly unique twist, some impassioned cooks have even used melted ice cream as a base — vanilla works wonders, but why not get creative with flavors like strawberry or butter pecan?
If you prefer a dairy-free approach, plant-based milks are a fabulous substitute that can bring a different nuanced flavor to your French toast. The experimentation doesn’t need to stop there; get inventive with your toppings and fillings. Want to add an irresistible crunch? Think whipped cream, caramel, and crushed pralines for that brown sugar taste. Feeling indulgent? Layer your French toast with Nutella and top with fresh strawberries, drizzling on a little more chocolate-hazelnut spread to finish it off.
With the right bread and a sprinkle of creativity, your French toast can transcend the breakfast table and take you on a delightful gastronomic journey. Don’t hesitate to give challah a whirl next time you’re preparing for a delectable morning treat — you won’t be disappointed!