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Singapore-Malaysian French Toast (Roti John) Recipe

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  • Author: Mary
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course, Snack
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Singaporean, Malaysian
  • Diet: Halal

Description

Singapore-Malaysian French Toast, known as Roti John, is a flavorful and satisfying street food favorite featuring a savory egg and ground meat mixture cooked onto soft bread, then pan-toasted until golden and crispy. This popular dish from Southeast Asia combines aromatic spices and herbs, making it a delicious snack or main course option.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 hot dog buns or halved baguette rolls
  • 4 large eggs
  • 200 grams (about 7 oz) ground meat (chicken, beef, or mutton)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 small green chili, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions or cilantro
  • 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 12 tablespoons oil or ghee for frying

For Serving

  • Mayonnaise
  • Ketchup or chili sauce
  • Optional sliced cucumbers or shredded cabbage


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Egg-Meat Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, ground meat, finely chopped onion, green chili, chopped green onions or cilantro, curry powder, soy sauce, salt, and pepper until the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
  2. Prepare the Bread: Slice each bun or baguette roll lengthwise, keeping one edge attached so the bread opens like a hinge, making it easy to hold the filling.
  3. Heat the Pan: Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add 1–2 tablespoons of oil or ghee to prevent sticking and to help achieve a golden crust on the toast.
  4. Cook the Roti John: Spoon or evenly spread a generous portion of the egg-meat mixture onto the cut side of each piece of bread, pressing gently to adhere the mixture. Place the bread with the filling side down onto the hot skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the egg mixture is fully set and golden browned.
  5. Toast the Other Side: Carefully flip the bread over and cook the other side for 1 to 2 minutes until the bread becomes crisp and toasted to a lovely golden color. Repeat this process for all buns or rolls.
  6. Serve: Serve the Roti John hot, drizzled with mayonnaise and your choice of ketchup or chili sauce. Garnish with optional sliced cucumbers or shredded cabbage for added freshness and crunch.

Notes

  • Roti John is a beloved street food across Singapore and Malaysia, known for its savory, crispy texture and robust flavors.
  • Feel free to customize the filling by adding cheese, substituting ground meat with canned sardines, or making it vegetarian by using plant-based proteins.
  • Adjust the heat level by omitting or adding more green chili based on your preference.