Rediscovering the joys of simplicity in the kitchen can lead to some of the most delightful culinary creations. Inspired by Jacques Pépin, a chef who masterfully blends simplicity with sophistication, he has crafted a recipe that transforms ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.
This dish starts with high-quality vanilla bean ice cream, not just for its flavor but as a nod to the importance of using the best ingredients. Unlike the common vanilla-flavored varieties, true vanilla bean ice cream offers a depth that is crucial in this minimalistic recipe.
Using stale bread might seem unusual, but it's perfect for soaking up the rich, melted ice cream, turning what could be waste into a delectable treat. This method, inspired by Pépin’s approach to cooking, uses ice cream as a substitute for the traditional French toast mixture, streamlining the process without sacrificing flavor.
Cooked to a crisp perfection and then served on a bed of its own melt, the toast is then sprinkled with a homemade cinnamon sugar that crisps up, adding a delightful crunch and a spark of cinnamon that dances on the palate. The final touch of fresh citrus zest cuts through the sweetness and enriches the flavors, making each bite a testament to the power of simplicity.
Sharing this recipe feels like sharing a little culinary secret, one that epitomizes the philosophy that sometimes, less truly is more. It’s a reminder that great cooking doesn't have to be complex to be memorable.
As Pépin himself might say, it’s about understanding the ingredients and letting them shine. So, whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook, this dish offers a moment of culinary bliss that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. Try it, and let the simplicity surprise you.
Ingredients:
(Serve 1)
High Quality Vanilla Bean Ice Cream, 2 Scoops
Stale Sourdough Bread, 1 Slice
Unsalted Butter, 2 TBSP
Demerara Sugar, 1 TBSP
Cinnamon Powder, 1 TSP
Sea Salt, Punch
Fresh Lemon / Lime Zest, 1/2 Lemon / Lime
Equipment:
Skillet
Directions:
Melt the ice cream in a shallow bowl. I prefer to melt mine at room temperature. You can however use a microwave.
Once the ice cream has completely melted, place in the stale bread.
Let the bread soak in the melted ice cream for about 3 to 5 mins on both sides.
Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
Add in the soaked bread.
*Do not discard the leftover ice cream.*
Cook until the bottom is browned and crisp.
Flip and cook for another min.
Remove from heat and place the toast onto the melted ice cream.
Mix sugar, cinnamon and salt in a small bowl until well combined.
Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar over the toast.
Garnish with some lemon or lime zest.
Serve immediately.
Post from 2021...
Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication...
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