French Toast with Rabri Topping
A decadent fusion breakfast where classic, fluffy French toast meets creamy, cardamom-scented Indian rabri. This indulgent dish is topped with nuts for a delightful crunch, perfect for a special weekend brunch.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Rabri
- b.Pour 500ml of whole milk into a heavy-bottomed, wide pan. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- c.Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the milk powder, whisking to ensure no lumps form.
- d.Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring every few minutes. Scrape the cream that forms on the sides and stir it back into the milk. Continue until the milk reduces to about two-thirds of its original volume and has a creamy, thick consistency.
- e.Add 3 tbsp of sugar, 0.25 tsp of cardamom powder, and the saffron strands. Stir well until the sugar dissolves, and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- f.Turn off the heat and set the rabri aside. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Make the French Toast Batter
- b.In a wide, shallow dish (large enough to fit a slice of bread), crack the two eggs.
- c.Add 120ml of whole milk, 1 tbsp of sugar, and the remaining 0.25 tsp of cardamom powder.
- d.Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth, pale, and well-combined.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook the French Toast
- b.Heat 1 tbsp of ghee in a non-stick skillet or tawa over medium heat. Swirl to coat the pan.
- c.Take one slice of bread and dip it into the egg mixture for about 10-15 seconds per side. It should be saturated but not falling apart.
- d.Carefully place the soaked bread onto the hot skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until it's golden brown, crisp on the outside, and cooked through.
- e.Remove the cooked toast and place it on a wire rack to prevent it from getting soggy.
- f.Repeat the process with the remaining bread slices, adding more ghee to the pan for each batch.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Assemble and Serve
- b.Arrange two slices of warm French toast on each serving plate.
- c.Pour a generous amount of the prepared rabri over the toast, allowing it to soak in slightly.
- d.Garnish with chopped pistachios and almonds.
- e.Serve immediately for the best texture and temperature contrast.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best texture, use day-old, thick-cut bread like brioche or challah. It absorbs the batter better without becoming mushy.
- 2Use a heavy-bottomed pan for making rabri to prevent the milk from scorching. Stirring frequently is key.
- 3Do not over-soak the bread. A quick dip is all that's needed to coat it thoroughly.
- 4Maintain a consistent medium heat when frying the toast. Too high, and the outside will burn before the inside is cooked.
- 5The rabri can be made a day in advance and refrigerated. Gently warm it up before serving or serve it chilled for a different experience.
Adapt it for your goals.
Flavor Enhancement
Add a teaspoon of rose water or a few drops of kewra essence to the rabri in the final step for a fragrant, floral note.
Healthier OptionHealthier Option
Use whole wheat bread instead of brioche and replace sugar with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or date paste. Note that this will alter the final taste and texture.
Fruity ToppingFruity Topping
Top the dish with fresh fruits like sliced mangoes, pomegranate arils, or mixed berries for a fresh and tangy contrast.
Bread ChoiceBread Choice
Experiment with other sturdy breads like challah, sourdough, or a thick-cut Texas toast for different flavor profiles and textures.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Provides Protein
The combination of milk, milk powder, and eggs makes this dish a good source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Rich in Calcium
With a significant amount of milk, this recipe is rich in calcium and Vitamin D, both crucial for maintaining strong bones and healthy teeth.
Quick Energy Source
The carbohydrates from the bread and sugar provide a quick and substantial source of energy, making it a filling meal to start your day, especially for a weekend treat.
Frequently asked questions
One serving (two pieces) of French Toast with Rabri Topping contains approximately 550-650 calories, depending on the thickness of the bread and the amount of ghee used.