FRENCH TOAST WITH POACHED PLUMS

FOR THE POACHED PLUMS:
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup water
1 cup fresh plums, pitted and sliced
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
FOR THE FRENCH TOAST:
4 eggs
2 tablespoons water or milk
4 slices (1/2-inch thick) of bread
3 tablespoons butter
Confectioners' sugar (for topping)

TO MAKE THE POACHED PLUMS:
In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat; bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Cook until a thin syrup forms, 4 to 5 minutes.

Add the plums and continue to cook, stirring often, until the plums soften; another 4 to 5 minutes.

Stir in vanilla. Remove from heat, cover to keep warm and set aside.

TO MAKE THE FRENCH TOAST:
In a shallow baking dish that will hold the bread in a single layer, combine the eggs and water or milk; beat lightly.

Add bread, soaking first side 1 to 2 minutes, then turning and soaking the other side.

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until it foams.

Add the bread and cook until golden, 3 to 4 minutes. Turn with a spatula and cook the other side until golden, another 3 to 4 minutes.

TO SERVE:
Place a piece of French toast on each of 4 plates. Spoon warm plums and their sauce over French Toast. Dust with confectioners' sugar.

Makes 4 servings
Source: California Tree Fruit Agreement