[FREEDOM] TOAST:

Lynne's Super Supper French Toast (Lynne Rossetto Kasper, December 2, 2003, The Splendid Table)

Serves 4 to 5

1 cup half-and-half
4 large eggs
3 tablespoons brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
1 teaspoon grated orange zest
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1/8 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 to 3 tablespoons butter
6 slices (up to 1-inch thick) English muffin, egg, or multi-grain bread (could be stale)
Maple syrup, honey, or powdered sugar

1. In a large shallow bowl beat together the half-and-half, eggs, sugar,
vanilla, zest, allspice, pepper and salt.

2. Heat butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Meanwhile, turn several bread slices in the egg mixture until thoroughly saturated. Cook over medium heat until golden brown (2 to 3 minutes), turn and finish cooking. Keep slices warm in a low oven.

3. Repeat until all the bread is sautéed.

4. Serve hot with maple syrup.