While Americans seem to poke fun at British cuisine, we all know how tasty it is. Beans on toast is a regular target of ridicule online but there is now a new trick to make the staple comfort food even more delicious.

By its very nature, beans on toast, is a very simple dish. Just two ingredients. It’s part of the appeal to the experince so you don’t want to make too big a change. Ironically, an American cook has decided to step in to make a worth addition to the British classic. It is the simple addition of fresh herbs that takes the dish to a whole new level.

The fresh herbs listed by Yummy Mummy Kitchen are fresh parsley followed by coriander as a garnish. Another way to improve the breakfast meal is to use a fancy sort of bread to soak up all that lovely tomatoey sauce.

Sourdough is all the rage these days, and a great addition for bean and toast enthusiasts if you will. But you can use any type of bread you want, as Yummy Mummy Kitchen suggests thicker country-style bread, French, ciabatta, even baguette slices will do.

Beyond herbs and bread, some cooks have found other subtle ways to elevate the dish without compromising its simplicity. A small pat of butter spread on the toast before adding the beans can add richness and help balance the tanginess of the tomato sauce. You can even add some grated cheese to the top so it melts into the sauce from the heat rising up off your steaming plate.

Another popular twist is adding a bit of spice. A sprinkle of smoked paprika, a dash of Worcestershire sauce, or even a few chilli flakes give the beans a kick without turning the meal into something completely different. These additions remain true to the spirit of beans on toast – quick, comforting, and unfussy – while giving it a bit more umph.

For people who enjoy a heartier breakfast, a fried or poached egg placed on top has become a favorite variation. The runny yolk mixes with the sauce and turns the whole dish into something even more indulgent. Some also pair it with grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, or a few slices of bacon to create a more complete breakfast plate.