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Japanese-Style Tamagoyaki French Toast

This recipe reimagines classic French toast with the subtle sweetness and delicate texture of Japanese tamagoyaki (rolled omelet). It's a delightful fusion, resulting in a breakfast or brunch that's both comforting and a little bit different. Imagine a rich, custardy center enveloped by a golden-brown, slightly crisp exterior – that's the magic of this dish!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • For the Custard Mixture:
  • 3 large eggs
  • ⅓ cup milk whole milk or 2% milk works best
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • For the French Toast:
  • 4 slices of thick-cut bread brioche or Japanese milk bread is highly recommended
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter for frying
  • Optional Toppings:
  • Powdered sugar for dusting
  • Maple syrup honey, or agave nectar, for drizzling
  • Fresh berries strawberries, blueberries, raspberries
  • Whipped cream
  • Matcha powder for dusting
  • Kinako roasted soybean flour, for dusting
  • Anko sweet red bean paste

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture:
  2. In a medium-sized bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them until they are light and frothy. Add the milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk everything together until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth and homogenous. Ensure there are no streaks of egg yolk or sugar granules remaining.
  3. Step 2: Soak the Bread:
  4. Place the bread slices in a shallow dish or baking pan. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring that both sides are well saturated. Allow the bread to soak in the custard for at least 10-15 minutes, flipping it halfway through to ensure even absorption. The bread should be moist but not overly soggy. The soaking time allows the custard to penetrate deeply into the bread, resulting in a custardy interior when cooked.
  5. Step 3: Prepare the Pan:
  6. Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add the butter to the pan and allow it to melt completely. Swirl the pan to evenly coat the surface with the melted butter. The butter should be hot enough to sizzle gently when the bread is added. Be careful not to overheat the butter, as it can burn and impart a bitter flavor to the French toast.
  7. Step 4: Cook the French Toast:
  8. Carefully lift the soaked bread slices from the custard mixture, allowing any excess custard to drip back into the dish. Place the bread slices in the hot skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the French toast for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it is golden brown and crispy on the outside and cooked through on the inside.
  9. Step 5: Serve:
  10. Once the French toast is cooked to perfection, remove it from the skillet and transfer it to a serving plate. Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with maple syrup or honey, and top with your favorite toppings, such as fresh berries, whipped cream, or a dusting of matcha powder or kinako. Serve immediately and enjoy!