Petit Dejeuner: A Savory French Toast Delight

The aroma of cinnamon and sautéed sausage always transports me back to my tiny Parisian apartment. Sunlight streamed through the window as I experimented with creating the perfect sweet-and-savory breakfast. My attempt to recreate the comforting taste of home with French toast took an unexpected turn when I incorporated some leftover sausage and apples, creating a delicious and unforgettable Petit Dejeuner. This unique combination became a beloved tradition, a taste of Paris right in my own kitchen.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Yield: 4 servings
• Dietary Type: Not specified

Ingredients

• 4 fluid ounces milk
• 2 small eggs, separated
• 1⁄2 tablespoon fresh lemon rind, grated
• 4 slices French bread
• 1⁄2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tart apple, peeled, cored and sliced
• 4 fluid ounces bottled water
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 12 ounces smoked sausage, sliced
• 1-2 ounces onion, minced
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon, mixed with sugar
• Maple syrup

Equipment Needed

• Whisk
• Small saucepan
• Sauté pan
• Greased cookie sheet

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius). This high heat will ensure the French toast gets nice and crispy.

2. In a bowl, whisk together the milk, egg yolks, and grated lemon rind. The lemon rind adds a delightful zest that complements the other flavors.

3. Soak the French bread slices in the egg mixture until they are thoroughly saturated. Ensure that each slice soaks evenly to achieve optimal texture.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until they become frothy but not stiff. This step will create a light and airy coating for the toast.

5. Dip the soaked bread slices in the frothy egg whites, and then dredge them generously in the breadcrumbs. The breadcrumbs will give the toast a satisfying crunch.

6. Arrange the breaded French toast slices on a greased cookie sheet. Make sure the slices are not overcrowded, so they bake evenly.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, then turn the slices and bake for another 10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

8. While the toast is baking, place the sliced apple in a small saucepan with the water and lemon juice. The lemon juice prevents browning and enhances the apple’s flavor.

9. Bring the apple mixture to a boil over medium heat, then immediately remove from heat. The apples should be slightly softened but still hold their shape. Drain the apples, reserving the liquid, if desired, to add to the maple syrup later.

10. In a sauté pan, sauté the sliced smoked sausage and minced onion together until the sausage is crispy brown and the onions are translucent and slightly caramelized. This combination creates a savory counterpoint to the sweetness of the apples and maple syrup.

11. To serve, sprinkle the baked French toast with the sugar/cinnamon mixture. The warm toast will melt the sugar, creating a delicious glaze.

12. Top the toast with the cooked and drained apple slices and the sautéed sausage and onions.

13. Finally, drizzle generously with maple syrup and serve immediately. The warmth and sweetness of the syrup tie all the elements together.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For an extra crispy texture, consider using day-old French bread.
• If you don’t have lemon rind, a dash of lemon extract can work as a substitute.
• Adjust the amount of sugar and cinnamon to your personal preference.
• To prevent the bread from becoming soggy, don’t oversoak it in the egg mixture.
• Make-ahead tip: You can prepare the apple mixture and sauté the sausage and onions ahead of time and simply reheat before serving.
• If the breadcrumbs aren’t sticking well, try brushing the egg-soaked bread lightly with melted butter before dredging.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve immediately while the French toast is warm and crispy. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in a microwave, but the texture will be softer. It is not recommended to freeze this dish, as the texture of the French toast may change upon thawing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	659 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	308 kcal	47%
Total Fat	34.3g	52%
Saturated Fat	12.1g	60%
Cholesterol	143.9mg	47%
Sodium	1884mg	78%
Total Carbohydrate	55.2g	18%
Dietary Fiber	4.2g	16%
Sugars	7.2g	28%
Protein	31g	62%

Note: These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk or soy milk for regular milk.
• Vegetarian: Omit the sausage or replace it with vegetarian sausage.
• Different Fruits: Experiment with other fruits such as pears, peaches, or berries instead of apples.
• Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the sugar and cinnamon mixture for a warmer flavor.
• Cheese: Sprinkle some grated Gruyere or Parmesan cheese on the toast before baking for an extra savory element.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of bread?
A: Yes, you can use other types of bread such as brioche or challah, but French bread works best for soaking up the egg mixture without becoming too soggy.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the apple mixture and sauté the sausage and onions in advance, but it’s best to bake the French toast just before serving to maintain its crispy texture.

Q: Can I use a different type of sausage?
A: Yes, you can use any type of smoked sausage that you prefer, such as kielbasa or andouille.

Q: How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?
A: Don’t oversoak the bread in the egg mixture. Soak it just until it’s saturated but not dripping.

Q: Can I add nuts to the breadcrumb mixture?
A: Absolutely! Adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the breadcrumbs can add extra flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Petit Dejeuner recipe is a delightful and unexpected twist on classic French toast, combining sweet and savory flavors in a truly unforgettable way. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and variations to create your own signature breakfast masterpiece. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a culinary adventure that will transport you to a charming Parisian café. We encourage you to share your creations and feedback, and perhaps even pair this dish with a strong cup of coffee or a sparkling mimosa for the ultimate brunch experience. Bon appétit!