Kissed French Toast

Adapted from The Native Foods Restaurant Cookbook, by Tanya Petrovna (Shambhala, 2003).
Simple Solution
This better-for-you vegan version of French toast is sure to be a winner at your house. Everybody loves the sweet flavor of French toast kissed with spices.
INGREDIENTS
1 1/2 cups water
3 tablespoons unbleached pastry flour
2 tablespoons melted nondairy no-trans-fats margarine
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon almond extract
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon turmeric
Pinch sea salt
2 to 3 tablespoons organic shortening
Six 1-inch slices French bread or sourdough
Pure maple syrup, for serving
1. Blend all ingredients except last three in a blender. Place mixture in a saucepan and whisk while heating until mixture is thickened. Remove from heat and slightly cool.
2. Melt some shortening in a skillet (cast iron works well for this) while soaking bread in batter. Place bread in skillet and brown on each side. Let it get nice and brown before turning, as batter is sticky. Use a spatula and scrape the bottom of the pan well while turning.
3. Serve with pure maple syrup.
Serves 3 to 4.