01/02/2026
During a leisurely weekend morning, I desired a meal reminiscent of brunch at a charming café, yet one that I could prepare within the comfort of my own kitchen. I consumed several slices of substantial bread, along with some vegetables, driven by a desire for that sweet-salty, crispy-edge solace. After a brief moment of dipping and sizzling, the entire house was filled with the aroma of caramelized toast and fragrant warm seasonings. This sandwich has become my preferred choice when seeking a meal that appears sophisticated yet prepares quickly.
Vegan Savory French Toast Sandwich (Brunch-Style)
Ingredients (Serves 1–2)
For the item known as "French toast"
Four substantial slabs of sourdough or artisanal bread
One cup of unsweetened plant-based milk (such as oat or soy)
Half a cup of garbanzo flour
One tablespoon of nutritional yeast
1 tablespoon of maple syrup (optional, to add a hint of sweetness)
One teaspoon of smoked paprika
Half a teaspoon of garlic powder
Half a teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
Half a teaspoon of salt
Half a teaspoon of cinnamon (optional, to evoke a luncheon atmosphere)
2–3 tablespoons of neutral oil (for browning)
For the infill
Half an avocado, cut
One medium-sized tomato, diced
One-quarter of a red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup of vegan mozzarella cheese (or minced tofu "feta")
Two tablespoons of diced black olives (optional)
A small portion of arugula or spinach (optional)
Rapid drizzle condiment
Two tablespoons of tahini
One tablespoon of lemon juice
1–3 tablespoons of tepid water (for thinning)
A small amount of salt
Optional: One teaspoon of maple syrup or Dijon mustard
Instructions
Prepare the batter: In a shallow basin, whisk together plant-based milk, chickpea flour, nutritional yeast, spices, salt, and maple syrup until the mixture is smooth. Allow it to stand for 2 minutes to achieve thickening.
Dip the bread: Submerge each slice for 10 to 15 seconds on each side (avoid excessive soaking).
Pan-fry: Warm a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of oil. Cook the segments for 3–4 minutes per side until they are thoroughly golden and crisp.
Prepare the sauce: Mix tahini, lemon juice, salt, and sufficient tepid water to achieve a pourable consistency.
Assemble: Layer in this order—toast slice, vegan cheese, tomato, onion, olives, avocado, greens—then conclude with an additional toast slice. Drizzle the marinade over the top (and provide additional on the side).
Guidelines
For an additional coffeehouse-style crunch, gently toast the bread prior to dipping.
Would you prefer it to be sweeter? Incorporate a touch more cinnamon and conclude with a delicate drizzle of maple syrup.
Would you prefer a more piquant flavor with smoky chipotle sauce, or a more brunch-sweet taste with a maple-tahini drizzle?