Savory French Toast
Savory French Toast is a easy Indian recipe that serves 2. 415 calories per serving. Recipe by Get Curried on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 12 min | Total: 27 min
Cost: $6.63 total, $3.32 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 large Eggs (room temperature)
- 0.5 cup Milk (whole milk preferred; can use any milk)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Coriander Leaves (chopped finely)
- 0.5 teaspoon Ground Cumin Powder (also called jeera powder)
- 1 tablespoon Dried Chives (if using fresh chives, use 2 teaspoons)
- 0.25 teaspoon Salt (or to taste; kosher or sea salt preferred)
- 0.125 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper (a few generous grinds)
- 1 teaspoon Olive Oil (extra‑virgin, for pan)
- 4 slices Day‑Old Bread Slices (white or whole‑wheat bread, about 1 day old; slightly stale)
Instructions
Bring Eggs to Room Temperature
Remove the eggs from the refrigerator and let them sit for about 5 minutes until they reach room temperature.
Time: PT5M
Prepare the Savory Custard
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, chopped coriander, ground cumin, dried chives, salt and freshly ground black pepper until just combined. Do not over‑whisk; stop once the mixture is uniform.
Time: PT2M
Heat the Skillet
Place a non‑stick skillet over medium‑high heat and add the teaspoon of olive oil, swirling to coat the surface.
Time: PT1M
Temperature: medium‑high
Dip the Bread
One at a time, dip each slice of day‑old bread into the custard, allowing it to soak for about 5 seconds per side. Let excess drip off before transferring to the pan.
Time: PT2M
Cook the First Side
Lay the soaked bread slices in the hot skillet. Cook until the underside is golden brown, about 2–3 minutes.
Time: PT3M
Temperature: medium‑high
Flip and Cook the Other Side
Turn the toast over with a spatula and cook the second side until equally browned, another 2–3 minutes.
Time: PT3M
Temperature: medium‑high
Repeat for Remaining Slices
Add a little more oil if the pan looks dry and repeat steps 4‑6 with the remaining bread slices.
Time: PT6M
Temperature: medium‑high
Serve
Transfer the golden‑brown savory French toast to a serving plate. Serve hot with ketchup, mayonnaise, or your favorite condiment.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 415
- Protein
- 22 g
- Carbohydrates
- 36 g
- Fat
- 18 g
- Fiber
- 2 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian
Allergens: Eggs, Milk, Wheat (gluten)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Eggs: egg replacer (for vegans), silken tofu (for vegans)
- Instead of Milk: almond milk, soy milk, oat milk
- Instead of Fresh Coriander Leaves: flat‑leaf parsley
- Instead of Ground Cumin Powder: ground coriander
- Instead of Dried Chives: fresh chives, scallions (green part)
- Instead of Freshly Ground Black Pepper: white pepper
- Instead of Olive Oil: vegetable oil, ghee
- Instead of Day‑Old Bread Slices: brioche, sourdough, ciabatta
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Non‑Stick Skillet
- Spatula
- Measuring Spoons
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Plate for Serving
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Do not over‑whisk the egg‑milk mixture; stop once uniform.
- Use day‑old bread and dip only briefly to avoid a mushy interior.
- Cook on medium‑high heat until each side is golden brown; adjust heat if browning too fast.
Chef Tips from the Video
- For richer flavor, substitute the regular bread with brioche or sourdough.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the custard for subtle heat.
- Serve with a side of fresh tomato salsa for a bright contrast.
Troubleshooting
Bread becomes soggy and falls apart.
Use bread that is at least a day old and dip only briefly; press gently to remove excess custard before cooking.
Toast is pale and not crispy.
Increase the skillet heat to medium‑high and allow the pan to preheat fully before adding oil and bread.
Eggs curdle or form lumps.
Do not over‑whisk; keep the mixture smooth and cook over moderate heat so the custard sets gently.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat in a skillet or toaster.
Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month; reheat directly in a skillet or oven.
Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the seasoned custard up to 2 hours ahead and keep it refrigerated; give it a quick whisk before using.
- Day‑old bread can be toasted lightly the night before to speed up soaking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of savory French toast in Indian‑influenced Christmas breakfasts?
Savory French toast isn’t a traditional Indian dish, but many Indian families incorporate it into Christmas morning as a comforting, protein‑rich alternative to sweet pastries. The addition of coriander, cumin and chives reflects Indian flavor profiles, making the dish a fusion favorite that balances the holiday’s sugary treats.
What regional variations of savory French toast exist within Indian cuisine?
In South India, a similar dish called "uttapam" uses fermented rice‑lentil batter and is served with chutney. In North India, people sometimes add garam masala, turmeric or paneer to the custard. The Get Curried version highlights fresh coriander and cumin for a milder, herbaceous twist.
How is savory French toast traditionally served in Indian households during festive occasions?
It is usually served hot, paired with tangy ketchup, homemade mayonnaise, or a simple tomato‑onion chutney. Some families also accompany it with a side of spiced yogurt (raita) to add creaminess and cool the palate.
What occasions or celebrations is savory French toast commonly associated with in Indian‑Christian communities?
Savory French toast is popular on Christmas morning, especially in urban Indian‑Christian homes, as a quick yet hearty breakfast that can be prepared while other dishes are baking. It is also enjoyed on New Year’s Day and during family brunches.
What authentic traditional ingredients are used in Get Curried’s savory French toast versus acceptable substitutes?
The authentic recipe uses fresh coriander, ground cumin, dried chives, and day‑old white or whole‑wheat bread. Substitutes include parsley for coriander, ground coriander for cumin, fresh chives or scallions, and brioche or sourdough in place of regular bread.
What other Indian dishes pair well with savory French toast from Get Curried?
It pairs nicely with a light cucumber‑mint raita, a simple tomato‑onion chutney, or a side of spiced lentil soup (dal). A glass of masala chai or a cold lassi also complements the flavors.
What makes Get Curried’s savory French toast special or unique in Indian‑fusion cuisine?
The dish blends the classic French‑toast technique with Indian aromatics—coriander, cumin and chives—creating a balanced savory breakfast that is both familiar and novel. Its quick preparation makes it ideal for festive mornings when time is limited.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making savory French toast from Get Curried’s recipe?
Common errors include using fresh bread (which becomes mushy), over‑whisking the custard (leading to a rubbery texture), and cooking on too low heat (resulting in a pale, soggy toast). Follow the timing and heat guidelines for best results.
Why does this savory French toast recipe use a brief dip in the custard instead of soaking the bread longer?
A short dip allows the stale bread to absorb enough flavor without breaking apart. Longer soaking would saturate the crumb, making the toast fall apart and turn soggy during cooking.
What does the YouTube channel Get Curried specialize in?
The YouTube channel Get Curried specializes in Indian‑inspired home cooking, focusing on quick, flavorful recipes that blend traditional spices with everyday comfort foods. The host Tara often shares holiday‑specific dishes and practical cooking tips for busy families.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
