Pain Perdu
Savor the rich flavors of pain perdu, a traditional French dish that elevates simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Often referred to as “lost bread,” this recipe is a delicious way to repurpose stale bread, soaked in a sweet custard and cooked to golden perfection. Whether topped with fresh fruits, syrup, or whipped cream, pain perdu is sure to impress and satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients
– 4 slices of stale bread (preferably brioche or challah)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Butter for frying
– Maple syrup for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 10 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (2 slices) contains approximately 350 calories, 15g of fat, 40g of carbohydrates, and 10g of protein. Note that this is based on a serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Start by whisking together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon in a large bowl until smooth.
2. Dip each slice of stale bread into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are well-coated.
3. Let the bread soak for about 1-2 minutes per side to absorb the custard.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter.
5. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the soaked bread slices to the skillet.
6. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown on one side.
7. Flip the bread slices carefully and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side.
8. Remove from the skillet and place on a paper towel to absorb excess butter.
9. Repeat the process with any remaining bread slices, adding more butter as needed.
10. Serve warm, topped with maple syrup and your favorite fruits.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can replace milk with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version. You can also use agave syrup instead of sugar for a lower glycemic option.
Serving and Pairings
Pain perdu pairs beautifully with fresh berries, banana slices, or a dusting of powdered sugar. For a savory twist, consider serving it with crispy bacon or sausage on the side.
Storage and Reheating
To store pain perdu, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through. It can also be frozen, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip soaking the bread long enough; it needs to absorb the custard.
– Avoid cooking over high heat to prevent burning.
– Use stale bread for the best texture; fresh bread can become too soggy.
– Ensure the skillet is well-buttered to prevent sticking.
– Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary.
Helpful Tips
– Use thick slices of bread for a heartier texture.
– Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or orange for a twist.
– Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
– Garnish with whipped cream for an indulgent finish.
FAQs
What type of bread is best for pain perdu?
Brioche and challah are ideal choices due to their density and ability to absorb custard without falling apart. Stale bread works best for this recipe.
Can I make pain perdu ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the custard mixture in advance and soak the bread just before cooking to save time.
What toppings can I use for pain perdu?
Popular toppings include maple syrup, fresh fruits, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Get creative with your favorites!
Is pain perdu suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, you can use gluten-free bread to make a delicious gluten-free version of pain perdu that everyone can enjoy.
Can I add spices to the custard mixture?
Absolutely! Feel free to add nutmeg, cardamom, or any other spices you enjoy to enhance the flavor of your custard.
Conclusion
Pain perdu is more than just a dish; it’s a delightful way to transform stale bread into a culinary masterpiece. With its custardy texture and sweet toppings, it’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special dessert. Enjoy this classic French treat and share it with family and friends for a truly memorable experience.
Pain Perdu
Ingredients
- 4 slices of stale bread brioche or challah
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Butter for frying
- Maple syrup for serving
Instructions
- Whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon in a large bowl.
- Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are coated.
- Let the bread soak for 1-2 minutes per side.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add butter.
- Add soaked bread slices to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip the bread and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Remove from skillet and place on paper towel to absorb excess butter.
- Repeat with remaining bread, adding more butter as needed.
- Serve warm with maple syrup and fresh fruits.
