In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, sugar, orange zest, vanilla, cardamom, and salt until eggs are broken up and evenly combined. Soak 3 bread slices in egg mixture turning once, until soaked through, about 4 minutes total. Meanwhile, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large frying pan over medium heat. When butter foams, place 3 pieces soaked bread in the pan and cook until browned, about 2 minutes per side. Repeat with remaining bread. Serve topped with Honeyed Strawberries. Honeyed Strawberries: 1 tablespoon honey 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise and seeds removed 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice 1 pound strawberries, hulled, and halved lengthwise Mix honey, vanilla, and orange juice together in a medium bowl until honey is dissolved. Add strawberries, stir to coat, and let sit until berries give off their juices, at least 5 minutes. Stir briefly before using.