"german" Egg Bread Recipe

History of German Egg Bread:

The history of German Egg Bread traces back to the German immigrants who settled in the United States in the 18th and 19th centuries. These immigrants brought with them their culinary traditions, which combined influences from their native country with the ingredients and techniques available in their new homeland.

Egg bread, also known as "Eierschmier" or "German French Toast," is a dish that showcases the resourcefulness of these early German settlers. It was a simple and satisfying way to transform stale bread into a flavorful breakfast or lunch option.

Fun Facts about German Egg Bread:

1. Versatility: German Egg Bread can be enjoyed both as a sweet or savory dish. It can be topped with powdered sugar and served with fruit or syrup for a sweet variation. Alternatively, it can be paired with bacon or other savory ingredients for a heartier option.

2. Various Traditions: In different regions of Germany, there are variations of this dish. Some recipes call for adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg, while others incorporate raisins or nuts into the bread mixture. Each version reflects the preferences and ingredients available in the specific region.

3. Waste Reduction: German Egg Bread was traditionally made using stale bread, providing a clever solution to prevent food waste and making good use of pantry staples. This resourcefulness is a testament to the frugality and practicality of German cuisine.

Recipe for German Egg Bread:

Ingredients:
- Stale bread, cut into slices about 3/4 inch thick
- 1 pint of sweet milk
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoonful flour mixed smooth with a little cold milk
- A pinch of salt
- Half a dozen slices of thinly-sliced bacon
- Fine, dried bread crumbs
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- Tart jelly, either currant or grape, for serving

Instructions:

1. Cut the stale bread slices in half and set aside.
2. In a bowl, mix the sweet milk, eggs, flour mixture, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
3. Soak the slices of bread in the milk and egg mixture for a few minutes, turning them frequently to ensure even absorption.
4. In a pan, fry the thinly-sliced bacon until crispy. Once fried, transfer the bacon to an oven to keep it hot.
5. Dip the soaked bread slices in fine, dried bread crumbs, ensuring they are fully coated.
6. In the same pan used for frying the bacon, add the butter and allow it to melt. If desired, you can also use sweet drippings or a mixture of lard and butter.
7. Fry the crumbed bread slices in the pan with the melted butter (or other fat) until they turn a golden brown color on both sides. Cooking them quickly will help achieve a deliciously crispy texture.
8. Serve the German Egg Bread immediately on a platter, alongside the crispy bacon. Alternatively, you can opt for a variation where the bread is fried in different fats.
9. Accompany the German Egg Bread with a tart jelly, such as currant or grape, which adds a delightful contrast of flavors and enhances the overall experience.

Similar Recipe Dishes:

If you are intrigued by German Egg Bread, there are a few similar dishes you might enjoy exploring:

1. French Toast: Similar to German Egg Bread, French Toast is also made with stale bread soaked in an egg and milk mixture. However, French Toast typically incorporates additional flavorings like vanilla extract and cinnamon.

2. Spanish Torrijas: Torrijas is a Spanish dessert that is comparable to French Toast and German Egg Bread. It is made with bread that is soaked in sweetened milk, dipped in beaten egg, and then fried until golden brown. Torrijas are often flavored with cinnamon and orange zest and are traditionally served during Lent.

3. Bread Pudding: Bread Pudding is a popular dish made with stale bread, eggs, milk, sugar, and various flavorings such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla. It is baked until set and develops a custard-like texture. Bread Pudding can be served as a dessert or a breakfast item, and variations include adding fruits, nuts, or chocolate chips.

These similar dishes offer a range of flavors and textures that highlight the versatility of bread-based recipes across various cultures.