Mary Berry Eggy Bread Avocado And Ham Sandwich Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a deliciously unique twist on your typical sandwich, Mary Berry’s eggy bread avocado and ham sandwich is a must-try!

This recipe brings together the crispy, savory goodness of eggy bread with the creamy texture of avocado and the hearty flavor of ham. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a quick lunch that will leave you feeling satisfied and excited. With Mary Berry’s signature touch, you can count on this sandwich being both easy to make and full of flavor. Trust me, once you give it a go, it’s bound to become a regular in your kitchen rotation!

Mary Berry Eggy Bread Avocado And Ham Sandwich Recipe

Ingredients Needed

For this delicious twist on a classic, Mary Berry’s Eggy Bread Avocado and Ham Sandwich, you’ll need a handful of simple yet high-quality ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of savory, creamy, and comforting flavors. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

1. Bread

   Choose thick, hearty slices of white or wholemeal bread. A sturdy loaf, like sourdough or ciabatta, works well to hold up the egg coating and provide a satisfying bite. The bread is the base of your sandwich and adds structure to the entire dish.

2. Eggs

   Fresh, free-range eggs are essential. Eggs act as the binding agent for the bread and give the sandwich its signature ‘eggy’ richness. They coat the bread during the frying process, creating a golden, crispy exterior while maintaining a soft interior.

3. Milk

   Milk is combined with the eggs to create a light custard-like mixture for soaking the bread. Full-fat milk adds richness, but you can opt for a lighter alternative such as semi-skimmed milk if you prefer. Some recipes also allow for a splash of cream, which will increase the richness of the eggy bread.

4. Butter

   Butter is used for frying the eggy bread, giving it that delicious golden crust. The butter adds flavor and helps to achieve that crispy texture. For extra indulgence, use unsalted butter so you can control the seasoning.

5. Avocados

   Fresh, ripe avocados are a must. They provide a creamy, slightly buttery texture that contrasts beautifully with the crispy eggy bread.

   Choose avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure but aren’t overly soft or mushy. The rich flavor of the avocado adds depth to the sandwich.

6. Cooked Ham

   Slices of high-quality cooked ham add a savory, meaty element. Mary Berry’s version calls for thin slices of ham, which pair wonderfully with the creaminess of the avocado and the richness of the eggy bread. You can also experiment with other varieties of ham, such as smoked or honey-roast, depending on your taste preferences.

7. Fresh Herbs (Optional)

   Fresh parsley or chives are optional but highly recommended. These herbs add a burst of fresh flavor that cuts through the richness of the other ingredients. A light sprinkle of finely chopped herbs also enhances the dish’s visual appeal.

8. Seasonings

   Salt and pepper are crucial for balancing the flavors. A pinch of salt and a crack of black pepper can elevate the taste and ensure the eggy bread is perfectly seasoned. You can also sprinkle a dash of chili flakes for a subtle heat, or even add a squeeze of lemon juice for some acidity.

Equipment Needed

Mary Berry’s Eggy Bread Avocado and Ham Sandwich isn’t complicated to make, but there are a few pieces of equipment that will make your preparation easier and help you achieve the best results. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Frying Pan (Skillet)

   A large, non-stick frying pan or skillet is essential for frying the eggy bread. The non-stick surface ensures the bread won’t stick to the pan, which helps in achieving a golden and crispy exterior without losing its shape.

2. Whisk or Fork

   To create the egg mixture, you’ll need a whisk or a fork to beat the eggs and milk together. This step is key to ensuring that the eggs are fully blended and smooth, providing an even coating for the bread.

3. Cutting Board and Knife

   You’ll need a cutting board and a sharp knife to slice the bread, ham, and avocado. A serrated knife works best for slicing the bread, while a regular sharp knife is ideal for cutting through the avocado and ham.

4. Spatula

   A spatula, preferably a flat one, is important for flipping the eggy bread. This helps in gently turning the bread over without breaking or disrupting the golden crust.

5. Serving Plate

   Once the sandwich is assembled, a large serving plate will come in handy for plating your creation. This is where you’ll arrange your sandwich and serve it with style.

6. Small Bowl or Shallow Dish

   A shallow dish or bowl is useful for whisking the egg and milk mixture. It should be wide enough to dip your bread slices in but shallow enough to allow easy soaking.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Eggy Bread Avocado And Ham Sandwich

Now that you’ve got all the ingredients and equipment ready, let’s dive into the process of making this delightful sandwich. It’s a simple recipe, but it does require attention to detail to ensure everything is cooked to perfection.

1. Prepare the Egg Mixture

   Start by cracking the eggs into a shallow dish. Whisk them together with the milk, adding a pinch of salt and pepper.

   Make sure the mixture is well-combined and smooth. If you want extra creaminess, you can add a dash of cream at this stage, though it’s not necessary.

2. Soak the Bread

   Take your slices of bread and dip them into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are thoroughly coated. Allow the bread to soak for a few seconds to absorb the egg mixture, but be careful not to let the bread become too soggy. You want a nice, even coat of egg, not a dripping mess.

3. Cook the Eggy Bread

   Heat a frying pan over medium heat and melt a generous knob of butter. Once the butter is hot and foaming, place the soaked bread slices into the pan.

   Cook the bread for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully with a spatula to ensure an even crispiness on both sides.

4. Prepare the Avocado

   While the eggy bread is cooking, slice the ripe avocado in half, removing the pit. Scoop out the flesh with a spoon and slice it into thin strips. Set the slices aside.

5. Assemble the Sandwich

   Once the eggy bread is done, transfer it to a cutting board. On one slice of the eggy bread, layer the slices of avocado and top with the cooked ham. For added flavor, you can also sprinkle a little salt, pepper, and fresh herbs (like chives or parsley) over the avocado and ham.

6. Complete the Sandwich

   Top the sandwich with the other slice of eggy bread, egg side facing down. Press gently to help the sandwich stay together, and cut it diagonally for a classic presentation.

Expert Tips

1. Use Room Temperature Eggs

   For the best results, use eggs that are at room temperature. Cold eggs straight from the fridge can cause the bread to soak unevenly, resulting in a less crispy texture.

2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

   When frying the eggy bread, avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry the bread slices in batches if necessary. This ensures that each slice gets enough space to crisp up without steaming.

3. Customize Your Fillings

   While avocado and ham are a delicious combo, feel free to get creative with your fillings. You could try adding a slice of cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella), sautéed spinach, or even a fried egg for added richness.

4. Toast the Bread for Extra Crispiness

   If you like your bread extra crispy, consider toasting the bread in the oven or under a grill for a few minutes before soaking it in the egg mixture. This will help the bread maintain a firmer texture.

5. Rest the Sandwich Before Cutting

   Once assembled, let the sandwich sit for a minute or two before cutting. This allows the fillings to settle and the eggy bread to firm up, making it easier to slice without the ingredients spilling out.

Mary Berry’s Eggy Bread Avocado and Ham Sandwich is a satisfying, flavorful dish that brings together the simplicity of eggy bread with the creamy richness of avocado and the savory depth of ham. It’s the kind of recipe that feels both comforting and indulgent, perfect for a hearty breakfast, lunch, or even a light dinner.

By paying attention to the quality of ingredients and following the steps carefully, you’ll achieve a beautifully crispy sandwich with a balanced blend of textures and flavors. With just a few tweaks and personal touches, this sandwich can be tailored to your preferences, making it a versatile dish you’ll want to revisit again and again. Enjoy!

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Eggy Bread Avocado And Ham Sandwich

Mary Berry’s Eggy Bread Avocado and Ham Sandwich is a classic twist on a beloved dish, combining rich, creamy avocado with the savory depth of ham and the comfort of eggy bread. However, this recipe is incredibly versatile and can be easily adjusted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some fun, easy variations you can try:

1. Vegetarian Version:
   For those who prefer to skip the ham, a vegetarian variation can include a slice of grilled halloumi or a few roasted portobello mushrooms. The halloumi adds a salty, firm texture, while mushrooms provide an earthy depth that complements the creamy avocado.

2. Spicy Twist:
   If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding a layer of sliced chili or a dash of hot sauce to your sandwich. A smear of sriracha mayo or harissa mixed with the avocado will bring a spicy kick to the creamy richness. You could also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top of the eggy bread for an extra zing.

3. Add Some Cheese:
   To make the sandwich even more indulgent, a slice of melted cheese goes a long way. Choose a sharp cheddar for a bold contrast to the creamy avocado, or try something milder like mozzarella or even goat cheese for a tangy note. Cheese lovers can also experiment with a rich, melted Swiss or Gruyère.

4. Herb Infusion:
   Mary Berry’s recipe uses basic seasoning, but fresh herbs can elevate the dish significantly. Try adding a sprinkling of fresh basil, parsley, or chives to the avocado spread. Alternatively, mix some finely chopped rosemary or thyme into the egg mixture for a fragrant, herbaceous aroma.

5. Bacon for Extra Crunch:
   While ham provides a lovely flavor, crispy bacon can add a delightful crunch to the sandwich. The smoky saltiness of bacon complements the avocado and eggy bread beautifully, giving the dish an irresistible texture contrast. You can either crumble the bacon over the avocado or lay crispy strips between the bread slices.

6. Switching Up the Bread:
   For a different texture or flavor, consider switching the type of bread. A thick sourdough or a whole-grain bread can bring a more substantial base to your sandwich, offering an extra layer of flavor. Brioche bread, on the other hand, will give a sweet, buttery contrast to the savory ingredients.

7. Sweet Touch:
   Some people enjoy a hint of sweetness in their savory dishes. If you want to play around with flavor combinations, a drizzle of honey or a spoonful of fruit chutney-like fig or apple-on the ham can balance the richness of the avocado and eggy bread. It’s a unique twist that will surprise and delight your taste buds.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Mary Berry’s Eggy Bread Avocado and Ham Sandwich is undoubtedly a fresh and indulgent treat, but sometimes there are leftovers. To make sure the flavors stay fresh and the texture doesn’t suffer, here are a few best practices for storing leftovers:

1. Separate Components:
   If you have leftover eggy bread, ham, and avocado, the best way to store them is to keep each ingredient separate. This will preserve the freshness of the individual components. Place the eggy bread in an airtight container and store the avocado in a separate container with a bit of lemon juice or vinegar to prevent browning. The ham should be stored in a separate airtight container in the fridge.

2. Storing Eggy Bread:
   The eggy bread can last for about 1-2 days in the fridge. To keep it from becoming soggy, avoid stacking the slices directly on top of each other. Instead, layer them with parchment paper or wax paper between each slice. When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat the bread in a toaster or on a pan to restore its crispy texture.

3. Storing Avocado:
   Avocado tends to brown quickly once it’s cut, so to extend its shelf life, store the leftover avocado in an airtight container with a layer of plastic wrap pressed directly onto the flesh. Adding a bit of lemon or lime juice helps prevent oxidation. If you’ve already combined it into an avocado spread, refrigerate it in an airtight container, but it’s best consumed within a day or two.

4. Ham Storage:
   Ham is best stored in the fridge, and it will usually last 3-5 days if wrapped properly. Make sure the ham is tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or placed in a sealed container to prevent exposure to air, which can cause it to spoil faster.

5. Reassembling the Sandwich:
   If you want to enjoy the sandwich again, it’s best to reassemble it fresh, rather than storing the sandwich whole. Reheat the bread and avocado separately, and then assemble the sandwich when ready to eat. This way, the textures will remain at their best, and the sandwich won’t become soggy.

What Goes Well With Eggy Bread Avocado And Ham Sandwich

While Mary Berry’s Eggy Bread Avocado and Ham Sandwich is a filling and satisfying meal on its own, pairing it with complementary sides can elevate the dining experience. Here are some ideas for what goes well with this delicious sandwich:

1. Salads:
   A light and refreshing salad pairs perfectly with the richness of the sandwich. A simple green salad with mixed leaves, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette can offer a crisp contrast. You could also go for an avocado and tomato salad, where the freshness of the tomatoes and the creamy avocado complement the sandwich’s flavors. A side of coleslaw or a tangy apple slaw would add crunch and a zesty contrast.

2. Soup:
   A warm bowl of soup is a comforting addition to your sandwich. A tomato soup, perhaps with a hint of basil, would make a lovely pairing with the eggy bread, while a creamy potato or leek soup would also complement the richness of the sandwich. For a more adventurous choice, try a spicy butternut squash soup to bring out the flavors of the ham and avocado.

3. Fruit:
   Fresh fruit can balance the savory notes of the sandwich and provide a natural sweetness. A citrus salad, perhaps with orange and grapefruit segments, would add a zesty contrast. Alternatively, a side of sliced apples, pears, or a small bowl of mixed berries can bring a fresh, light note to your meal.

4. Potato Chips or Fries:
   For a heartier side, a serving of crispy potato chips or fries can add a satisfying crunch. Season them with a little sea salt and rosemary for an extra touch of flavor. Sweet potato fries are another great option, offering a slightly sweet contrast that pairs well with the savory elements of the sandwich.

5. Pickles:
   A few pickle spears on the side are a classic choice to accompany any sandwich. Their tangy and slightly sour flavor provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the eggy bread and avocado. You can try dill pickles, bread-and-butter pickles, or even some homemade pickled onions for an extra punch.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Eggy Bread Avocado and Ham Sandwich is a perfect blend of comfort and indulgence, with its crispy, egg-dipped bread, creamy avocado, and savory ham coming together in a delightful harmony of flavors. The versatility of this dish allows for numerous variations, catering to different dietary preferences and tastes, whether you opt for a spicy twist, vegetarian substitution, or an added layer of cheese.

When storing leftovers, it’s important to keep the components separate to maintain their freshness and texture. Additionally, the sandwich can be paired with a variety of sides-from crisp salads to warm soups or even a side of fries-offering countless opportunities to create a well-rounded meal. Whether enjoyed as a quick lunch or a hearty breakfast, this sandwich is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress anyone who takes a bite.

FAQs

What Is Mary Berry’s Eggy Bread Avocado And Ham Sandwich?

Mary Berry’s Eggy Bread Avocado and Ham Sandwich is a delicious, savory breakfast or brunch dish consisting of egg-soaked bread, crispy ham, and creamy avocado, all served in a sandwich form. It combines the rich flavors of eggy bread with the freshness of avocado and the savory taste of ham for a perfect, satisfying meal.

What Ingredients Do I Need For Mary Berry’s Eggy Bread Avocado And Ham Sandwich?

To make this sandwich, you will need eggs, bread (preferably thick-cut white or wholemeal bread), butter, avocado, cooked ham slices, and salt and pepper for seasoning. Optionally, you can add herbs like chives or parsley for extra flavor.

How Do I Prepare The Eggy Bread For The Sandwich?

To prepare the eggy bread, whisk eggs in a shallow bowl with a pinch of salt and pepper. Dip the slices of bread into the egg mixture, making sure they are well-coated. Then, fry the bread in a pan with butter on both sides until golden and crispy.

Can I Use Any Type Of Bread For This Recipe?

While Mary Berry’s recipe often uses thick white or wholemeal bread, you can experiment with different types of bread such as sourdough or multigrain. Just make sure to choose a bread that can absorb the egg mixture without becoming too soggy.

How Do I Assemble The Eggy Bread Avocado And Ham Sandwich?

To assemble the sandwich, start by spreading mashed avocado onto one slice of the eggy bread. Add a layer of cooked ham and top with another slice of eggy bread. You can serve it as is or cut it into halves or quarters for easier eating.

Can I Make The Sandwich Ahead Of Time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Fry the eggy bread and store it in an airtight container, then assemble the sandwich just before serving. If you’re using avocado, it’s a good idea to mash it right before serving to prevent browning.

Is There A Vegetarian Version Of This Recipe?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the ham and adding more vegetables like grilled mushrooms, spinach, or tomatoes. You can also add cheese for a richer flavor.

What Can I Serve With Mary Berry’s Eggy Bread Avocado And Ham Sandwich?

This sandwich pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh fruit, a light salad, or some crispy potato wedges. A simple smoothie or freshly brewed coffee would complement the flavors perfectly.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Protein Instead Of Ham?

Absolutely!

You can substitute the ham with other proteins such as crispy bacon, turkey slices, or even poached or fried eggs for extra richness.

How Do I Prevent The Bread From Becoming Soggy In This Recipe?

To prevent sogginess, make sure the bread is well-coated in the egg mixture but not soaked through. Fry the bread in hot butter and ensure both sides are crispy before assembling the sandwich. Also, mash the avocado just before adding it to the sandwich to keep it from releasing excess moisture.