Toad in the Hole

Alright; I have to admit. This name is so bizarre that I had to use it! I have heard this called "birds nest"; "eggs in a basket"; "toad in the hole" and "hamster in a nest". Ok, the last one, my kids made up, but it's as funny as the whole idea that an egg in the middle of a piece of toast looks like a toad. Anywhich way you call this, it's an easy breakfast idea. If you don't have a round cookie or biscuit cutter, just use a drinking glass. My kids love making these. Quick, on hand ingredients and very minimal cooking skills make this a good choice for kids to make during the summer themselves, once they are old enough to work the stovetop. Most of you will know this little egg treat right away, but many have probably forgotten all about it. My version features Rustic Italian bread and butter ... real butter! The Italian Bread that I purchased the other day from Trader Joe's was delicious. ENJOY!

Toad in The Hole Serves 1

1 piece of bread (your choice, any will do)

1 whole egg

1 T. butter

frying pan or griddle

1. Butter both sides of your bread. Cut out a round shape from the middle of the bread. Place pan or griddle on stove to warm for a minute. Place bread onto pan (if your pan must be prepared before hand because it's not a non-stick sort, do this before you place bread into pan). Place the extra little round in the pan also.

2. Crack open the egg and place into round hole in bread. Allow egg to cook. Flip entire bread / egg once white is beginning to cook. Remember to flip the little round also.

3. Once egg is cooked to your taste, remove from pan and plate. Enjoy your breakfast.

* Tip: for an "eggstra" special or "gourmet" Toad in the Hole; use an herb butter. Placing fresh herbs into softened butter and using that in the pan.

* Tip: if you're making this for a group, mix up the breads, if you have some wheat, white, rye; give the opposite round to a different guest. You're Toad is on rye, but you are going to have a round of wheat and so on.