Vegemite

Vegemite on toast is a quick Australian breakfast or snack: crisp white bread is buttered while warm, then finished with a thin layer of the savoury yeast-extract spread. Its bold, salty flavour is best enjoyed straight away.
Ingredients
- 4 thick sliceswhite bread
- to tastebutter
- to tasteVegemite
Instructions
- 1
Toast the bread
Toast the bread slices, then spread them generously with butter while they are still hot.
- 2
Add Vegemite
Spread a thin layer of Vegemite over the buttered toast and enjoy straight away.
What is Vegemite on toast?
Vegemite is a dark, salty yeast-extract spread strongly associated with Australian food culture and also eaten in New Zealand. On toast, its intense savoury flavour is balanced by butter and the mild taste of white bread.
This simple version works because the butter melts into the hot toast, while a restrained layer of Vegemite gives plenty of flavour without overwhelming each bite.
Nutrition and macros by portion
The nutrition label shows one serving as written: 230 calories, 7g protein, 30g carbs, 9g fat.
| Portion | Adjustment | kcal | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lighter | Use less butter | 161 kcal | 5g | 21g | 6g |
| This serving | As written | 230 kcal | 7g | 30g | 9g |
| Hungry | Add another toast slice | 345 kcal | 11g | 45g | 14g |
Most of the carbohydrates come from the white bread, while butter provides most of the fat and Vegemite contributes a small amount of protein. Pair a slice or two with fruit or an egg for a more balanced plate.
Choosing the ingredients
White bread: thick slices give the toast a soft centre and a sturdy surface for the toppings.
Butter: spread it generously while the toast is still hot so it melts evenly.
Vegemite: start with a thin layer; the spread is salty and concentrated, so a little goes a long way.
Getting the toast right
Toast the slices until crisp and golden to your liking. A crisp surface gives a useful contrast to the melted butter and soft bread inside.
Layering the spread
Butter first: add it as soon as the toast comes out so the warmth softens it.
Vegemite second: spread a thin, even layer over the butter rather than adding a thick dollop in one place.
Serving it fresh
This is a very quick dish, and the only cooking is toasting the bread. Serve it immediately while the toast is crisp and the butter is still melted.
What to serve it with
Have the toast on its own for a quick bite, or pair it with fruit or a simple egg to make a more substantial breakfast. A hot drink is also an easy accompaniment.
Recipe notes & tips
- Toast the bread to the level of crispness you prefer.
- Spread the butter while the toast is hot so it melts easily.
- Use a thin layer of Vegemite at first, then add more if you like a stronger taste.
- Spread the Vegemite evenly to avoid very salty patches.
- Serve as soon as it is made to keep the toast crisp.
Variations
- Add avocado: top the toast with sliced avocado for a creamy contrast.
- Add an egg: serve with a fried or softly boiled egg for a more filling meal.
- Use wholemeal bread: swap in wholemeal slices for a nuttier base.
- Add cheese: place a little grated cheese on the hot toast for a savoury topping.
- Make smaller pieces: cut the toast into fingers for an easy snack.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using too much Vegemite: its flavour is intense, so begin with a thin layer.
- Waiting to butter the toast: the butter spreads more easily while the bread is hot.
- Leaving the bread pale: toast it until crisp enough to hold the toppings.
- Spreading unevenly: cover the surface with a thin, even layer for balanced flavour.
- Making it too early: serve promptly so the toast does not turn soft.
How to store
This toast is best eaten immediately and is not well suited to storing once assembled. Keep the bread, butter and Vegemite separate until serving.
Frequently asked questions
How much Vegemite should I use?
Use a thin layer, especially if you are new to its strong, salty flavour. You can add a little more after tasting.
Do I butter the toast before the Vegemite?
Yes. Spread butter over the hot toast first, then add the Vegemite on top.
Can I use a different kind of bread?
Yes. Wholemeal or another sliced bread can be used, though the flavour and texture will differ from white bread.
Can I make Vegemite toast ahead?
It is quickest and best made just before eating, since the toast loses its crispness as it sits.
Why is Vegemite so salty?
Vegemite is a concentrated yeast-extract spread with a distinctly savoury, salty taste. A thin coating helps keep that flavour in balance with the bread and butter.
Cook it from the original
This recipe comes from 196flavors.com. Their page has the author’s own photos, notes and tips — the best place to cook it from.
Open the recipe on 196flavors.com