Global Breakfast Tour: Introducing Classic Breakfasts from Around the World
Breakfast, as the beginning of the day, not only carries the mission of nutrition, but also contains the cultural characteristics of different places. In different countries and regions, people greet the first ray of sunshine in the morning in different ways. From bread and cheese in Europe to congee and noodles in Asia, from pancake syrup in the Americas to bean stew in Africa, the breakfast menu around the globe is colourful and ever-changing. Now, let’s embark on a globe-trotting journey of the palate to discover breakfast classics from around the world.
Europe: The Romantic Combination of Bread and Cheese
In France, the day starts with bread. A crunchy baguette with a slice of soft Camembert and a cup of strong coffee is the standard French breakfast. In the UK, on the other hand, breakfast is much more substantial, with toast, fried eggs, bacon, sausages, tomatoes and black pudding making up what is known as the “full English”.
Asia: a feast for the taste buds with sophistication and complexity
Across the Eurasian continent, in China, where breakfasts come in all shapes and sizes. In the north, you’ll find steaming hot soya bean paste and doughnuts, while in the south, you’ll find soft and creamy rice noodles and hot congee in soup. In Japan, on the other hand, the traditional breakfast includes miso soup, onsen eggs, dried small fish and nori, each of which is small and delicate, representing the subtlety and balance of Japanese cuisine.
The Americas: energy-packed and invigorating choices
Breakfast in America is truly a “breakfast like a king”. A classic American breakfast might include fried eggs, bacon, pancakes and maple syrup. In Mexico, on the other hand, tacos or tortillas with beans, guacamole and chilli are preferred – a breakfast that is not only varied, but also a source of energy.
Africa: A raw and natural flavour experience
Breakfasts in Africa tend to be based on beans and grains. In Ethiopia, for example, sourdough pancakes called “injera” are often served with chilli sauce and beans. In North Africa’s Morocco, breakfast may consist of freshly baked scones with honey, cheese and mint tea – simple and Mediterranean in flavour.
Oceania Chapter: The freshness and leisure of the sea
Breakfast culture in Australia and New Zealand is more deeply influenced by the UK, but also incorporates local elements. Grilled spit breakfast, a common eating habit in everyone’s daily life, actually contains the colourful culture and customs of each country. In this era of globalisation, let’s embark on a global journey of taste to discover how people around the world start their day with different foods.
In Europe, breakfast often represents simplicity and elegance. In France, for example, a cup of strong coffee with a slice of freshly baked bread, or some cheese and jam, constitutes a typical French breakfast. With the aroma of coffee, the crunch of bread and the richness of cheese, this breakfast not only satisfies the taste buds, but is also a symbol of an elegant start to the day.
In the UK, a heartier breakfast is preferred. A full English breakfast of omelette, bacon, sausage, black pudding, toast and tomato with a cup of traditional English black tea is a great way to get energised and ready for a busy day.
Moving across to Asia, we find that the flavours and forms of breakfast have become even more diverse. In China, different regions have very different breakfast choices. Northerners enjoy hot soya milk with doughnuts, while southerners prefer more varied options such as rice noodles, xiao long bao and congee. In Japan, breakfast usually consists of rice, miso soup, pickles and fish, a combination that provides plenty of energy while maintaining the original flavour and nutrition of the food.
Breakfasts on the American continent display a completely different style. In the United States, a standard American breakfast might include pancakes, bacon, scrambled eggs and syrup, a high-calorie breakfast that provides plenty of fuel for a busy day. Whereas in Latin America, such as Mexico, people prefer to eat uniquely flavoured tortillas, often accompanied by beans, chillies and avocados, which are not only full of flavour but also perfect for the hot climate there.
Africa, the ancient continent, breakfast is also full of regional characteristics. In East Africa, Ethiopia, people like to eat fermented bread called “injera” for breakfast, usually with chilli sauce and various stews. In North Africa, such as Morocco, breakfast can be more Mediterranean, with fresh scones, olive oil and a variety of spices.
