One-Pan Egg Toast with Green Onions, Ham, and Cheese

In the bustling rhythm of morning routines, breakfast often needs to be quick yet nourishing. Enter the one-pan egg toast—a savory, satisfying dish that combines the heartiness of bread with the richness of eggs, layered with the distinct flavors of green onions, ham, and melty cheese. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also versatile enough to cater to your breakfast cravings or serve as a delightful brunch centerpiece.

Preparation Time:

  • Active Prep: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Rising Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Bread:

  • 200g all-purpose flour
  • 2g instant yeast
  • 10g sugar
  • 2g salt
  • 160g water

For the Toppings:

  • 1 egg
  • Green onions, finely chopped
  • Ham, sliced
  • Cheese (cheddar or mozzarella recommended)
  • 1 tsp sugar (for sprinkling on top)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Bread Dough:
    • In a large bowl, mix together the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add the water, stirring to incorporate until a dough forms. Adjust the water as needed to achieve a soft but non-sticky consistency.
    • Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
    • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm area until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.
  2. Prepare the Toppings:
    • While the dough is rising, prepare the toppings by chopping the green onions and slicing the ham.
  3. Assemble the One Pan Egg Toast:
    • After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle about 1/2 inch thick on a floured surface.
    • Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and carefully transfer the dough to the skillet.
    • Crack the egg in the center of the dough and gently spread it with a fork, taking care not to break the yolk if you prefer it whole.
    • Evenly distribute the green onions, ham slices, and cheese around the egg. Sprinkle a teaspoon of sugar over the top to enhance the flavor.
  4. Cook the Toast:
    • Cover the skillet with a lid, allowing the steam to help cook the toppings. Maintain a medium-low heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the bread’s bottom turns golden brown and the toppings are thoroughly cooked. Monitor the heat to prevent the bottom from burning while ensuring the egg and cheese melt perfectly.
  5. Serve:
    • Once cooked, slide the egg toast onto a plate. Cut it into portions and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

Enhance this hearty breakfast with a side of avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream for added richness. A drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as cilantro can add a fresh, spicy kick to the dish.

Cooking Tips

  • To add more texture and flavor, consider sautéing the green onions and ham before adding them to the toast.
  • Use a cast iron skillet if available, as it retains heat well and helps in evenly cooking the bottom of the toast.

Nutritional Benefits

This meal is a balanced source of macronutrients:

  • Proteins: Eggs and ham provide high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
  • Carbohydrates: The homemade bread supplies energy through complex carbohydrates.
  • Fats: Cheese and egg yolk include healthy fats that help in nutrient absorption and provide energy.

Dietary Information

This one-pan egg toast recipe is naturally high in gluten and dairy. For those with dietary restrictions:

  • Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
  • Dairy-Free: Substitute regular cheese with dairy-free alternatives like nutritional yeast or vegan cheese.

Conclusion

This one-pan egg toast is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a tasty, fulfilling breakfast that is easy to make and clean up afterward. Its wholesome ingredients provide essential nutrients to start the day strong, and the customizable nature allows you to tweak it to your taste or dietary needs. It’s sure to become a favorite in your breakfast repertoire, providing a warm and satisfying start to your mornings or a delightful addition to your brunch table.