Starting the day with a hearty breakfast is key to having a productive day. One breakfast dish that is worth trying is the Original Pain Perdu. This flavorsome dish has 417 calories and is sure to keep you energized all morning.
If you're wondering what goes into making this dish, don't worry, we'll take you through the entire process, but first, let's talk about the nutritional value of this dish. One serving of Original pain Perdu has 25g of protein, 43g of carbohydrates, and negligible amounts of dietary fiber.
In this article, we will explore the history of pain perdu, how to make it, its nutritional facts, and some popular variations of the dish.
The History of Pain Perdu
Pain Perdu, meaning 'lost bread' in French, was created by the lower classes in France who could not afford to waste stale bread. They would add milk, eggs, and sugar to the bread and fry it in butter. This dish was later adopted by the wealthy classes and became popular in the United States as French Toast. In New Orleans, the dish became known as Pain Perdu and is a staple of the city's unique cuisine, especially during Mardi Gras when it is served with sweet toppings like fruit compote and whipped cream.
Ingredients Used in Pain Perdu
Making Original Pain Perdu requires the following ingredients:
- 4 slices of thick brioche bread
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup of whole milk
- 1 tablespoon of honey
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
Variations of this dish can also include ingredients like nutmeg, orange zest, or ground almonds for extra flavor.
How to Make Pain Perdu
Making Pain Perdu is quite simple. Here's how to do it:
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and melt butter in it
- Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, making sure to coat both sides
- Place the coated bread slices onto the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown
- Remove from the pan and serve hot with your choice of toppings
Variations of Pain Perdu
While the Original Pain Perdu is delicious on its own, there are variations of this dish that you can try. One of the most popular variations is the savory version which includes cheese, ham or turkey, and mayonnaise. Other variations include:
- Banana and Caramel Pain Perdu
- Strawberry and Cream Pain Perdu
- Cinnamon Sugar Pain Perdu
- Chocolate and Hazelnut Pain Perdu
Nutritional Facts of Pain Perdu
One serving of Original Pain Perdu has the following nutritional value:
- calories: 417
- Total fat: 22g
- Saturated fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 204mg
- Sodium: 438mg
- Total carbohydrates: 43g
- Dietary fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 17g
- Protein: 25g
Benefits of Pain Perdu
While this dish is not exactly a health food, it does offer some benefits. The eggs in the recipe provide protein, while the milk adds calcium. The bread used in the recipe provides carbohydrates which are a good source of energy. The dish also provides a dose of comfort on a cold morning.
How to Serve Pain Perdu
Original Pain Perdu can be served with a variety of toppings, both sweet and savory. Some popular toppings include:
- Powdered sugar and maple syrup
- Fruit compote and whipped cream
- Peanut butter and jelly
- Grilled ham or turkey and cheese
- Mayonnaise and ketchup
The Best Drinks to Pair with Pain Perdu
Pairing the right drink with Original Pain Perdu can enhance its flavor. Some beverages that go well with this dish include:
- Coffee
- Hot chocolate
- Chai tea
- Orange juice
- Mimosa
Pain Perdu vs. French Toast
While Pain Perdu and French Toast are essentially the same dish, there are some minor differences. Pain Perdu is made from stale bread while French Toast can be made from fresh bread. The French also tend to use thinner slices of bread while the Americans use thicker slices. Additionally, Pain Perdu is cooked in butter while French Toast is usually cooked in oil.
Famous Versions of Pain Perdu
Pain Perdu is a dish that has been adapted and changed over the years, resulting in unique versions of the dish. Some famous versions include:
- Bananas Foster Pain Perdu
- Creme Brulee Pain Perdu
- Savory Pain Perdu with Ham and Cheese
If you're looking for a tasty and hearty breakfast dish, try the Original Pain Perdu.
Frequently Asked Questions about Original Pain Perdu Breakfast
What is Original Pain Perdu Breakfast?
Original Pain Perdu Breakfast is a classic French dish made with thick sliced bread soaked in milk, eggs, cinnamon, and sugar mixture, then fried until golden and crispy. It is typically served with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of maple syrup.
How many calories are in one serving of Original Pain Perdu Breakfast?
One serving of Original Pain Perdu Breakfast contains 417 calories. This dish is high in carbs and fat, so it may not be the best option for those who are watching their calorie intake.
Is Original Pain Perdu Breakfast a healthy breakfast option?
Original Pain Perdu Breakfast is not the healthiest breakfast option due to its high calorie content and high levels of sugar and fat. However, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Can I make Original Pain Perdu Breakfast at home?
Yes, Original Pain Perdu Breakfast can be made at home. There are many recipes available online that provide step-by-step instructions on how to make this classic French dish.
What are some variations of Original Pain Perdu Breakfast?
There are many variations of Original Pain Perdu Breakfast. Some popular variations include using different types of bread, such as brioche or challah, or adding fruit, such as berries or bananas, to the dish. Some recipes also call for the use of different spices, such as nutmeg or vanilla extract.