Oh my gosh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite breakfast treat: zaatar and cheese French toast! It’s a delightful twist on the classic French toast we all know and love, but with a savory Middle Eastern flair that will have your taste buds dancing! I remember the first time I tried this—my cousin made it for brunch, and I was blown away by how the aromatic zaatar paired perfectly with the gooey cheese. Seriously, it’s like your breakfast and a cheesy pizza had a delicious lovechild! The crispy outside and the melty, cheesy inside create the most satisfying bite. Trust me, once you dip that thick-cut bread into the zaatar-infused egg mixture and fry it up, you’ll be hooked! It’s a must-try for anyone looking to spice up their breakfast routine!
Ingredients List
4 slices of thick-cut bread
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup shredded cheese (feta or mozzarella work perfectly)
2 tablespoons zaatar
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt to taste
These simple ingredients come together to create a savory masterpiece that’ll leave you wanting more. I always make sure to use thick-cut bread because it holds up beautifully in the egg mixture and gives you that satisfying crunch on the outside while staying soft and cheesy on the inside. And don’t skimp on the zaatar—it’s the star of the show here! It adds that incredible herby flavor that makes this dish truly unforgettable. So, gather these goodies, and let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Instructions
Step 1: Whisk the Mixture
First things first, grab a bowl and whisk together the eggs, milk, zaatar, and a pinch of salt. I like to really get in there and whip it until everything’s well combined and the zaatar is evenly distributed. This is where the magic begins! The aroma of the zaatar will start to fill your kitchen, and trust me, it’s heavenly.
Now, let’s heat things up! Place a skillet over medium heat and pour in the olive oil. You want just enough oil to coat the bottom of the skillet. Let it heat up for a minute or two—don’t rush this step! You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers a little. This is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown crust.
Step 3: Coat the Bread
While the skillet is heating, take your thick-cut bread slices and dip them into the egg mixture. Make sure to coat both sides thoroughly—no half-measures here! I usually let the bread soak for just a few seconds to really absorb all that flavor. You want each bite to be packed with that zaatar goodness!
Step 4: Cook the Bread
Once your skillet is hot and ready, gently place the coated bread slices into the pan. I usually fit in two slices at a time, but you can adjust based on your skillet size. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn a lovely golden brown. Be patient—this is where you get that delicious crispiness!
Step 5: Add Cheese
Here comes the best part! Right before you flip the slices, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese on top of each one while they’re still in the skillet. I love using feta for that tangy kick, but mozzarella gives a nice stretch. Then, cover the skillet with a lid for about 1-2 minutes to let the cheese melt beautifully.
Step 6: Serve
When the cheese is all melty and gooey, it’s time to serve! Carefully transfer your zaatar and cheese French toast to a plate and dig in while it’s warm. I like to pair it with a side of fresh tomatoes or a dollop of yogurt for extra creaminess. Trust me, this dish is not just breakfast; it’s a celebration on a plate!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy mornings!
Deliciously unique flavors that blend savory zaatar with gooey cheese.
Vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for everyone!
Uses simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.
Thick-cut bread creates a satisfying texture that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or additional herbs.
Perfect for brunch or a cozy breakfast at home.
Each bite feels like a warm hug, making it a comforting choice!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your zaatar and cheese French toast turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my go-to tips that I swear by:
Use thick-cut bread: Seriously, don’t settle for anything less! Thick bread holds up beautifully in the egg mixture and gives you that wonderful crunch on the outside while staying soft and cheesy inside.
Fresh zaatar is key: If you can, use fresh zaatar for the most vibrant flavor. It makes a huge difference! If you have a local Middle Eastern market, it’s worth the trip.
Add veggies: Feel free to sneak in some fresh spinach, diced tomatoes, or even sautéed mushrooms. They add a nice pop of color and flavor that complements the zaatar beautifully!
Let it soak: Don’t rush the soaking process! Let the bread sit in the egg mixture for a few seconds to soak up all that delicious flavor. You want every bite to burst with taste!
Experiment with cheese: While feta and mozzarella are my favorites, don’t be afraid to try other cheeses! Gouda or even a sharp cheddar can add a delightful twist.
Cover to melt: Covering the skillet when adding cheese really helps it melt perfectly. You’ll get that ooey-gooey texture that makes this dish so irresistible!
With these tips, I guarantee your zaatar and cheese French toast will be a hit! Enjoy the process and don’t forget to savor every bite!
Variations
The beauty of zaatar and cheese French toast is its versatility! You can easily customize it to match your taste preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
Cheese Swap: While I adore feta and mozzarella, why not try some crumbled goat cheese for a tangy twist? Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, a sharp cheddar can add a nice kick!
Herb Infusion: Take it up a notch by mixing in fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro into the egg mixture. The added freshness complements the zaatar beautifully!
Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the egg mixture. It’ll give your French toast a delightful spicy edge!
Vegetable Medley: Toss in some sautéed veggies like bell peppers, onions, or even mushrooms for a hearty addition. They’ll add great flavor and texture, making your breakfast even more satisfying!
Sweet Meets Savory: For a unique twist, try drizzling a bit of honey or maple syrup over the finished toast. The combination of sweet and savory is absolutely divine!
Different Breads: Experiment with different types of bread! Sourdough or ciabatta can give a lovely flavor and texture. Just make sure it’s thick-cut to hold up to the egg mixture.
Feel free to mix and match these variations or come up with your own unique spin! The sky’s the limit, and I can’t wait for you to find your favorite combination. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information Section
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness in each slice of this zaatar and cheese French toast! Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on common ingredients, so they might vary slightly depending on what you use.
Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 250
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 150mg
With a delightful mix of carbs, protein, and healthy fats, this dish is a satisfying way to start your day. Plus, the zaatar adds not just flavor but also a good punch of antioxidants. Enjoying this zaatar and cheese French toast means indulging in a hearty breakfast that’s both comforting and nourishing! Who wouldn’t want that?
FAQ Section
Can I make zaatar and cheese French toast ahead of time? Yes, you can! If you want to prepare it in advance, I recommend cooking the French toast and then storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. It’s not quite as crispy as when freshly made, but still delicious!
What can I use instead of zaatar? If you don’t have zaatar on hand, no worries! You could use a mix of dried oregano, thyme, and sesame seeds for a similar flavor profile. It won’t be exactly the same, but it’ll still give you that herby goodness!
What type of cheese works best? I’m a huge fan of feta and mozzarella for this recipe, but don’t hesitate to get creative! Goat cheese adds a lovely tang, while sharp cheddar can bring a nice kick. Just choose a cheese that melts well for that perfect gooey texture!
Can I add meat to this dish? Absolutely! If you want to make it heartier, crispy bacon or sautéed sausage would be fantastic additions. Just cook the meat separately and serve it alongside or on top of the French toast for a savory feast!
How can I serve zaatar and cheese French toast? I love serving this dish with a side of fresh tomatoes or a dollop of yogurt for creaminess. You could also drizzle some honey or hot sauce on top for an extra flavor boost! It’s so versatile, you can play around with toppings to suit your taste!
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