5 Countries that Do Breakfast Right

They say it’s the most important meal of the day. It also happens to be my favorite meal of the day, and one I’d gladly trade lunch or dinner for. When traveling, there’s nothing I love more than to linger over a well-done version that I’m less familiar with. Here are five interesting, amazing breakfasts to be had around the world…

 

Israel

If breakfast in Israel consisted only of its signature dish, shakshuka–a baked egg and tomato number–it would still make this list. With a supporting cast that includes various cheeses, Israeli salad, fruits, breads and other Middle Eastern sides, it’s shot to the top of my list of favorite-ever culinary experiences.

 

Mexico

The great thing about chilaquiles, the classic Mexican breakfast dish made with a base of tortilla chips grilled in salsa, then topped with beans, eggs,  avocado and garnishes, is that it’s so hearty you’ll be prepared for whatever the day might throw at you. The bad news is that it’s so hearty you may not be hungry again by dinner.

 

 

England

Order an English Breakfast and you typically know exactly what you’re going to get: eggs, beans, roasted tomatoes, mushrooms, bacon, toast. It’s a combo that as simple as it is effective, and provided one of my few culinary joys during a six-month stint in London in 2005.

 

Brazil

Any meal that places bread and cheese in tandem generally gets my approval. During mornings in Brazil, millions pop a Pão de queijo or four into their mouths. These smallish round pastries offer the perfect ration of cheese to bread, in an on-the-go size.

 

Pakistan*

Breakfast in Pakistan involves some dishes that American might more typically associate with a Northern Indian dinner–chicken and/or channa masala, for example. These are served with a fried bread called poori and a sweet confection called halwa. Sweet, savory, and bread, check.

*Note that the US Government currently warns against all non-essential travel to Pakistan.