Whether you're looking to impress guests or just add a bit of excitement to your mornings, here are some delightful and innovative ideas to reignite your passion for breakfast and brunch.
1. Savoury Porridge
Porridge isn't just for sweet toppings anymore. Try a savoury version for a change:
Ingredients: Rolled oats, vegetable or chicken stock, your choice of toppings (e.g., sautéed mushrooms, wilted spinach, a poached egg, and a sprinkle of cheese).
Method: Cook the oats in stock instead of water or milk. Top with your chosen savoury ingredients.
Tip: Add a dash of soy sauce or miso paste for an umami boost.
And all Scotish people know the only way to serve porridge is with salt, not sugar!
2. Shakshuka
This Middle Eastern and North African dish is a feast for both the eyes and the palate:
Ingredients: Tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, garlic, spices (cumin, paprika, cayenne), eggs, fresh herbs (coriander or parsley).
Method: Sauté onions, garlic, and peppers until soft. Add tomatoes and spices, then simmer. Make small wells in the mixture and crack eggs into them. Cover and cook until the eggs are set to your liking.
Tip: Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
3. Avocado Toast with a Twist
Avocado toast is a classic, but it's easy to elevate:
Ingredients: Sourdough bread, ripe avocados, radishes, microgreens, feta cheese, chilli flakes.
Method: Toast the bread, smash the avocado on top, and add thinly sliced radishes, a sprinkle of microgreens, crumbled feta, and a pinch of chilli flakes.
Tip: Drizzle with a bit of balsamic glaze for an extra layer of flavour.
4. Breakfast Tacos
Tacos aren't just for dinner. Breakfast tacos are fun and customisable:
Ingredients: Soft tortillas, scrambled eggs, black beans, avocado, salsa, cheese, fresh coriander.
Method: Warm the tortillas, scramble the eggs, and assemble with your chosen fillings.
Tip: Add a squeeze of lime and a dash of hot sauce for an authentic touch.
5. Smoked Salmon and Scrambled Eggs on Bagels
A luxurious yet simple combination:
Ingredients: Bagels, smoked salmon, eggs, butter, chives, cream cheese, lemon.
Method: Toast the bagels. Scramble the eggs with butter and chives. Spread cream cheese on the bagels, top with scrambled eggs and smoked salmon, and finish with a squeeze of lemon.
Tip: Serve with a side of capers and red onion for added zing.
6. Sweet Potato and Chorizo Hash
This hearty dish is perfect for a weekend brunch:
Ingredients: Sweet potatoes, chorizo, red onions, bell peppers, eggs, fresh parsley.
Method: Dice and roast the sweet potatoes until tender. Sauté the chorizo, onions, and peppers until soft. Combine with the roasted sweet potatoes and top with fried or poached eggs. Garnish with parsley.
Tip: For an extra kick, add a dollop of harissa or sriracha.
7. Fruit and Yoghurt Parfaits
For a lighter option that's still full of flavour:
Ingredients: Greek yoghurt, mixed berries, granola, honey, mint leaves.
Method: Layer the yoghurt, berries, and granola in glasses. Drizzle with honey and top with a sprig of mint.
Tip: Use seasonal fruits for the best flavour and a variety of textures.
8. Overnight Oats
Perfect for busy mornings, overnight oats are versatile and delicious:
Ingredients: Rolled oats, milk (or a dairy-free alternative), chia seeds, honey, your favourite toppings (e.g., nuts, fruits, coconut flakes).
Method: Mix the oats, milk, chia seeds, and honey in a jar. Refrigerate overnight. In the morning, add your toppings.
Tip: Experiment with different flavourings such as vanilla extract, cocoa powder, or cinnamon.
Incidentally when I make overnight oats I just place all the ingredients into the bowl I'll eat the oats from, mix them up and pop them into the fridge. Saves washing up, too.
9. Croque Madame
A French classic that's both elegant and comforting:
Ingredients: Slices of ham, Gruyère cheese, béchamel sauce, eggs, butter, bread.
Method: Make a sandwich with ham and cheese, then toast it in a pan with butter. Top with béchamel sauce and a fried egg.
Tip: Serve with a simple green salad to balance the richness.
10. Banana Pancakes
A sweet and satisfying treat that's easy to make:
Ingredients: Bananas, eggs, flour, baking powder, milk, butter, maple syrup.
Method: Mash the bananas and mix with eggs, flour, baking powder, and milk to make a batter. Cook in a pan with butter until golden. Serve with maple syrup.
Tip: Add a handful of blueberries or chocolate chips to the batter for extra indulgence.
Conclusion
Bringing a spark back into breakfast and brunch doesn't require a lot of effort—just a bit of creativity and willingness to try something new. These recipes offer a range of flavours and textures that can transform your mornings into a delightful culinary experience. Whether you prefer savoury or sweet, light or hearty, there's something here to suit every taste. Happy cooking!
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