Hong Kong French Toast

Short Description

Hong Kong French Toast is a beloved dish originating from the city’s iconic cha chaan tengs (tea restaurants). This indulgent treat features thick slices of milk bread filled with peanut butter, dipped in egg, and deep-fried to golden perfection. Served with a pat of butter and a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk, it offers a delightful combination of crispy exterior and soft, creamy interior.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cultural Delight: Experience a classic from Hong Kong’s culinary scene, bringing the authentic taste of cha chaan tengs to your kitchen.
• Simple Ingredients: Requires only a handful of common pantry items, making it accessible and easy to prepare.
• Versatile Serving: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack, and pairs wonderfully with a cup of Hong Kong-style milk tea.
• Customizable Fillings: While traditionally made with peanut butter, it can be adapted with various fillings to suit different tastes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Thick slices of milk bread or white bread
• Creamy peanut butter
• Large eggs
• Whole milk
• Neutral oil for frying (e.g., vegetable or canola oil)
• Unsalted butter
• Sweetened condensed milk

Directions

1. Prepare the Bread: Cut the crusts off the bread slices to create clean edges.
2. Assemble the Sandwich: Spread a generous layer of peanut butter on one slice of bread and top with another slice to form a sandwich.
3. Make the Egg Mixture: In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the milk until well combined.
4. Dip the Sandwich: Carefully dip the sandwich into the egg mixture, ensuring all sides are coated evenly.
5. Fry the Toast: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, fry the sandwich until golden brown on both sides, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Drain and Serve: Remove the toast from the pan and place it on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot, topped with a slice of butter and a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Alternative Fillings: Substitute peanut butter with Nutella, fruit jams, or kaya (coconut jam) for different flavor profiles.
• Custard Filling: For a richer taste, use a custard filling made from salted duck egg yolks, milk powder, and butter.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based milk and egg substitutes, along with vegan butter, to make a dairy-free version.
• Air-Fried Version: For a healthier alternative, prepare the toast using an air fryer instead of deep-frying.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the toast soggy.

FAQs

What is Hong Kong French Toast?

Hong Kong French Toast is a deep-fried sandwich made with thick slices of bread filled with peanut butter, dipped in an egg mixture, and served with butter and condensed milk. It’s a popular dish in Hong Kong’s tea restaurants.

Can I use regular white bread instead of milk bread?

Yes, regular white bread can be used, though milk bread is preferred for its soft and fluffy texture, which enhances the overall taste.

Is it necessary to remove the crusts?

Removing the crusts helps achieve an even, golden-brown fry and allows the toast to cook uniformly.

Can I bake the toast instead of frying?

While baking is an option, frying provides the characteristic crispy texture that defines Hong Kong French Toast.

What are some alternative fillings?

Common alternatives include fruit jams, Nutella, kaya, or even savory options like ham and cheese for a different twist.

How do I prevent the toast from becoming too greasy?

Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying and drain the toast on paper towels immediately after cooking to remove excess oil.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sandwiches in advance and refrigerate them. Dip and fry just before serving.

What type of oil is best for frying?

Neutral oils with high smoke points, such as vegetable or canola oil, are ideal for frying this dish.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, when using plant-based fillings and avoiding meat-based additions, it is suitable for vegetarians.

What beverages pair well with Hong Kong French Toast?

Traditional pairings include Hong Kong-style milk tea or a strong black tea to complement the sweetness of the toast.

Conclusion

Hong Kong French Toast is a delightful fusion of textures and flavors, offering a crispy exterior with a soft, creamy center. Its simplicity in preparation, combined with the richness of taste, makes it a favorite comfort food. Whether you’re reminiscing about travels to Hong Kong or exploring new culinary delights, this dish brings a taste of Hong Kong’s vibrant food culture to your table.

Print