Fun with Toast
Chances are you weren't very old the first time you were hoisted, in rumpled pajamas, onto the kitchen counter to witness the jack-in-the-box magic of toast popping, warm and golden, from the toaster. Could anything be more comforting than the crunchy-brown aroma of toast? Probably not--which may be why, long after childhood, the aroma of toasting bread continues to elicit an immediate longing to be at a cozy kitchen table having breakfast. But the morning meal is just the beginning. After all, where would we be without grilled cheese sandwiches, and croutons? At an Italian cafe, it turns out, enjoying the dense chewy quality of panini. Or inviting friends to try a sampling of crostini with fresh toppings. Toast satisfies the senses no matter how it's served. And with culinary influences from around the world--and access to the breads that go with them--now is a perfect time to experience a new slice of life.
This hole-in-one beauty begins with a thick slice of buttered brioche bread. The freshest eggs will have centered, golden yolks and the best flavor. Drop in a jumbo egg and cook until the bread is toasted and the egg is set. Pair with bacon or roasted tomatoes.
Recipe: Egg-in-the-Hole
Reminiscent of a grilled cheese, a panini is filled with combos of meat, cheese, and vegetables. The snack is pressed and grilled, either with a cast-iron weight in a grill pan, or with a panini maker, yielding a dense texture and a savory flavor.
Recipe: Salami & Cheese Panini
S'mores may be s'marvelous, but these sweet panini are out of this world. Fill ciabatta with nut butter and the best eating chocolate you can find, and grill until it melts into a swoon-indusing balance of crunchy and smooth. Heighten the flavors with a dash of Maldon salt, then crown the dreamy concoction with a toasted marshmallow.
Recipe: Chocolate Hazelnut Panini
Fore more ideas, read the rest of Fun Recipes with Toast.
Related Links:
Delicious Egg Recipes
Pancakes & Waffles
Winter Comfort Food
America's Favorite Sandwiches
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