It’s the simple things in life. Egg on toast

### **How to Make the Perfect Egg on Toast**

While making **Egg on Toast** is simple, there are a few tips and techniques that can take your dish from good to great. Let’s break down how to prepare the perfect **Egg on Toast**, focusing on the best methods for cooking both the egg and the toast.

#### **1. Choosing the Right Bread**

The choice of bread can make a significant difference in the overall texture and flavor of your **Egg on Toast**. A thick slice of **sourdough** is ideal because it’s sturdy enough to hold the egg and provides a slight tangy flavor that complements the richness of the egg. If you prefer something more delicate, opt for **white bread** or **whole wheat** bread. **Rye bread** adds a deeper, earthy flavor, and **multigrain** bread brings additional fiber and nutrition to the meal.

To ensure your toast is crispy but not too hard, lightly butter the bread and toast it in a skillet or use a **toaster**. Toasting it in a pan with a little butter allows for a golden, crispy edge that enhances the flavor.

#### **2. Perfecting the Egg**

When it comes to the egg, the method of cooking is a personal choice. Here are some options for cooking the egg to perfection:

– **Fried Egg**: For a classic **fried egg on toast**, heat a pan over medium heat and add a little butter or oil. Crack the egg into the pan, being careful not to break the yolk. Cook until the white is fully set and the yolk is still runny, or cook longer if you prefer a firmer yolk. For a crispy edge, increase the heat slightly.

– **Scrambled Egg**: For scrambled eggs, whisk the eggs in a bowl with a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour them into a pan with melted butter over low heat, stirring gently as they cook. Scrambled eggs are softer and creamier, making them a great choice if you prefer a smooth texture on your toast.

– **Poached Egg**: To poach an egg, bring a pot of water to a gentle simmer and add a small splash of vinegar (to help the egg whites coagulate). Crack the egg into a bowl, then gently slide it into the water. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes for a soft, runny yolk.

– **Boiled Egg**: For a hard- or soft-boiled egg, place eggs in a pot of water, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 7 minutes for soft-boiled or 10 minutes for hard-boiled. Once boiled, peel and slice the eggs over your toast.

#### **3. Elevating the Flavor**

While **Egg on Toast** is delicious on its own, adding a few extras can elevate the dish and make it your own. Here are some ways to enhance the flavor:

– **Avocado**: Spread some mashed avocado on your toast before adding the egg for a creamy, healthy twist.
– **Cheese**: Add a sprinkle of grated cheese, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan, on top of the egg for an extra layer of richness.
– **Sriracha or Hot Sauce**: Drizzle a bit of hot sauce or sriracha on top of your egg for some spice.
– **Herbs**: Fresh herbs like **parsley**, **chives**, or **basil** add a burst of color and freshness.
– **Tomatoes**: Sliced tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes can add acidity and brightness to the dish.
– **Bacon or Sausage**: For a heartier version, add some crispy bacon or a sausage link to the plate.

—

### **Popular Variations of Egg on Toast Around the World**

While **Egg on Toast** may be a universal dish, there are numerous variations of this simple meal depending on the culture. Here are a few different takes on the classic:

– **English Breakfast**: In the UK, **Egg on Toast** is often part of the full **English breakfast**, which includes eggs, bacon, sausages, grilled tomatoes, baked beans, and toast.
– **Eggs Benedict**: A more elaborate version of **Egg on Toast**, **Eggs Benedict** features a poached egg on an English muffin, topped with **hollandaise sauce** and often accompanied by **Canadian bacon**.
– **

Shakshuka**: In Middle Eastern and North African cuisine, **Shakshuka** is a variation where eggs are poached in a spicy tomato sauce, often served with warm bread for dipping.
– **Avocado Toast with Egg**: A trendy twist on **Egg on Toast**, this version includes mashed avocado spread on the toast, topped with a fried or poached egg.

—

### **Conclusion**

Sometimes, the simplest things in life are the most satisfying. **Egg on Toast** is a dish that brings joy, comfort, and sustenance, and it’s one that can be enjoyed in countless variations. Whether you prefer your egg scrambled, fried, or poached, this timeless classic never fails to deliver a delicious and fulfilling meal. With a bit of creativity and personalization, **Egg on Toast** can be made to suit any taste or dietary need, making it a versatile and enduring favorite.

So next time you find yourself craving something simple, yet satisfying, don’t underestimate the power of a perfectly cooked egg on a crispy slice of toast. It’s the kind of meal that reminds us that sometimes, less is more, and the simple things in life are often the best.