Eggs on toast is a simple yet delicious breakfast dish enjoyed by many around the world. However, it goes by different names in different places. In Britain, eggs on toast is commonly referred to as “eggy bread.” But why do the British use this particular term for eggs cooked on top of toast? In this article, we will explore the origins and history behind why the British call eggs on toast “eggy bread.” We will also look at some regional variations in terminology across the UK.
What Exactly is “Eggy Bread”?
Eggy bread is essentially eggs (typically beaten) that are cooked and served on top of toast. It makes for a protein-rich, satisfying breakfast or brunch. The eggs can be prepared in different ways – scrambled, fried, poached etc. before being placed on toast and seasoned with salt and pepper.
Some key features of eggy bread:
- Eggs are the key ingredient, beaten and seasoned, then cooked on top of bread
- Bread is toasted before eggs are added on top
- Butter or oil is typically used to cook the eggs and toast the bread
- Seasonings like salt, pepper, herbs can be added to taste
- Eggy bread can be served open-faced or sandwiched
So in summary, eggy bread refers to any variation of cooked eggs served on top of toasted bread. It’s the British term for what Americans would call “eggs on toast.”
Origins of the Term “Eggy Bread”
So how did eggy bread get its name? The term has been used since at least the early 1700s in Britain. Food historians trace it back to a common nickname for French toast – “eggy bread.”
French toast consists of bread soaked in beaten eggs and milk, then fried. The egg-soaked bread slices resembled bread with eggs cooked on top, leading to the nickname “eggy bread.” The term then evolved to refer to any variation of cooked eggs served on toast.
Some theories suggest the name also comes from the old British practice of soaking stale bread in milk and eggs to revive it. The egg mixture essentially turned the stale bread back into an edible, enriched form of “eggy bread.”
So in essence, the term “eggy bread” refers to the key ingredient – the egg – in the dish. The egg coats the bread, giving it an “eggy” texture and flavor. This distinguishes it from regular toast and gives the dish its descriptive name.
Regional Variations in Terminology
While “eggy bread” is the most common British term for eggs on toast, some regional variations exist:
- Scotland – “poor knights” or “poor knights of Windsor”
- North England – “eggy bread” or “dippy egg and soldiers”
- Midlands – “eggy bread”
- Wales – “eggy bread”
- South England – “eggy bread”
- London – “eggy bread”
In general, most of the UK refers to this breakfast dish as “eggy bread.” But some colorful regional names like “poor knights” also exist, adding to the diversity of British food terminology.
How Eggy Bread is Served in Britain
While preparations vary, eggy bread in Britain is typically served in one of two ways:
Open-faced
The eggs (scrambled, fried, etc.) are simply spooned or placed on top of a toast base. Common additions include:
- Butter – spread on the toast first
- Cheese – cheddar or mozzarella grated on top
- Ham, bacon, sausage – cooked meats as a topping
- Tomato – grilled or sliced tomato
- Mushrooms – sauteed mushrooms
- Baked beans
- Smoked salmon
The dish is seasoned with salt, pepper and other spices. Herbs like chives may be used as garnish.
Sandwiched
Here the eggs are placed between two slices of toast, resembling a breakfast sandwich. Fillings like cheese, ham, tomatoes, spinach are placed alongside the eggs before closing the sandwich.
Common Egg Preparations
- Fried eggs – sunnyside up, over easy, or scrambled on toast
- Poached eggs – nested in toast cutouts
- Boiled eggs – sliced on toast soldiers
- Baked or coddled eggs – cooked in a ramekin and served on toast
- Omelettes – filled omelettes placed on toast
So the British enjoy eggy bread in diverse ways! From a quick scramble to an elegant poached egg and smoked salmon combo, there are many possibilities.
Why is Eggy Bread a Popular British Breakfast?
Eggy bread has endured as a breakfast staple in Britain for several reasons:
- Satisfying – The protein from eggs and carbs from the toast make it nutritious and filling.
- Versatile – It can be adapted with different egg preparations and varied toppings.
- Quick – Eggy bread is relatively fast and simple to prepare.
- Affordable – Eggs and bread are economical ingredients.
- Comforting – The soft eggs and toasted bread are comforting to eat.
For these reasons, eggy bread continues to be a breakfast favorite at home and in cafes across Britain. It’s a tasty tradition!
Eggy Bread Around the World
While it remains closely associated with Britain, versions of eggy bread are enjoyed globally:
Americas
- USA – Eggs on toast, breakfast sandwiches
- Mexico – Huevos motuleños (fried eggs on tortillas)
- Brazil – Ovos com pão (eggs with bread)
Europe
- France – Oeufs sur le plat (eggs on bread slices)
- Spain – Pan con huevo frito (bread with fried egg)
- Germany – Rühreier auf Toast (scrambled eggs on toast)
Africa
- Egypt – Shakshouka (eggs poached in tomato sauce with bread)
- Morocco – Khobz bayd (fried egg sandwich)
- South Africa – Eggs on toast
Asia
- India – Bread omelette
- Malaysia – Roti telur (bread and eggs)
- Philippines – Tostadong itlog (toasted bread with eggs)
So while called different things, eggs on toast remains globally beloved!
Key Takeaways on Eggy Bread
Here are the key points on what the British call eggs on toast:
- “Eggy bread” is the common British term for eggs cooked on toast.
- The name comes from the egg coating the bread slices with flavor and texture.
- Regional names like “poor knights” also exist.
- Eggy bread is served open-faced or sandwiched in diverse ways.
- It endures as a British breakfast favorite for its taste, cost and convenience.
- Versions of eggy bread are enjoyed worldwide by different names.
So while it may be called eggs on toast in America, remember that it’s eggy bread across the pond in Britain!
Conclusion
Eggy bread provides insight into Britain’s whimsical and proud food culture. A simple combination of eggs and toast receives an evocative nickname that sticks throughout generations. This reveals the British affinity for fun, quirky food names and their patriotism for beloved staples like eggy bread.
But while the terminology differs, eggy bread remains universally enjoyed. Its protein-packed punch and comforting flavors continue making it a breakfast favorite through time and across borders. So whether you call it eggs on toast, eggy bread, or oeuf sur pain – dig in and savor this classic morning meal.