Hyderabadi Masala French Toast
A savory twist on the classic breakfast! Thick slices of bread are soaked in a spiced egg batter with fresh herbs and pan-fried to golden perfection. A popular street food style snack from Hyderabad, ready in minutes.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Egg Batter: In a wide, shallow bowl large enough to fit a slice of bread, crack the eggs. Add the milk and whisk vigorously for about 1 minute until the mixture is smooth, frothy, and uniform in color.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Add Aromatics and Spices: To the egg mixture, add the finely chopped red onion, deseeded tomato, green chilies, and coriander leaves. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix thoroughly for 30 seconds to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Coat the Bread Slices: Take one slice of bread at a time and dip it into the savory egg batter. Allow it to soak for about 10-15 seconds on each side. Ensure it's fully coated but not overly saturated to the point of falling apart.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Shallow-Fry the Toast: Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee in a non-stick pan or tawa over medium heat. Once the ghee is hot, carefully place the coated bread slice onto the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on the first side, until the bottom is golden brown and the egg is set. Flip gently and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes until equally golden and cooked through. Press down lightly with a spatula for an even crust.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Repeat and Serve: Remove the cooked toast from the pan and place it on a serving plate. Repeat the process for the remaining bread slices, adding more ghee to the pan as needed. Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh coriander leaves. It pairs wonderfully with tomato ketchup or mint chutney.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use day-old or slightly stale bread for the best results, as it absorbs the batter better without becoming mushy.
- 2Ensure your vegetables are chopped very finely. This helps them adhere to the bread and cook evenly without falling off.
- 3A wide, shallow dish (like a pie plate) is ideal for dipping the bread, ensuring an even coating.
- 4Maintain a steady medium heat. If the heat is too high, the outside will burn before the egg in the center is cooked.
- 5For a richer flavor, be generous with the ghee. It adds a distinct, nutty aroma that oil cannot replicate.
- 6Don't overcrowd the pan. Cook one or two slices at a time, depending on the size of your pan, to ensure they cook evenly.
Adapt it for your goals.
Cheesy Masala Toast
Sprinkle a tablespoon of grated mozzarella or cheddar cheese on top of the toast after flipping it in the pan. Cover with a lid for a minute to melt the cheese.
Vegetable Loaded ToastVegetable-Loaded Toast
Add other finely chopped vegetables to the batter, such as bell peppers (capsicum), grated carrots, or sweet corn for extra nutrition and crunch.
Spicier VersionSpicier Version
Increase the amount of green chilies and red chili powder. You can also add a pinch of black pepper powder to the egg mixture for an extra kick.
Eggless VersionEggless Version
For an eggless alternative, create a batter using 1/2 cup of gram flour (besan), 1/4 cup of water or milk, and all the listed spices and vegetables. The texture will be different, similar to a 'besan toast'.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Eggs are a complete protein source, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function. A protein-rich breakfast helps keep you full and satisfied for longer.
Provides Sustained Energy
The combination of carbohydrates from bread and protein from eggs provides a balanced release of energy, making it a great way to start your day and fuel your activities.
Rich in Healing Spices
This recipe includes spices like turmeric, which contains curcumin, a compound known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Ginger and garlic also offer immune-boosting benefits.
Frequently asked questions
It can be a moderately healthy breakfast option. It's a good source of protein from eggs and carbohydrates for energy. To make it healthier, use whole wheat bread, limit the amount of ghee used for frying, and serve it with a side of fresh salad instead of ketchup.