The Great Breakfast Showdown: American vs. English

Introduction

Breakfast has long been touted as the most important meal of the day, but does it really live up to the hype? And if so, which breakfast reigns supreme: the full English breakfast or the iconic American diner breakfast? In this blog, we will delve into the details of these two breakfast options and explore their similarities, differences, and overall deliciousness. So grab a cup of coffee and let’s dig in!

The All-American Breakfast

Let’s start with the all-American breakfast, a classic combination of eggs, bacon, hash browns, and pancakes. The key to a perfect all-American breakfast lies in the quality of its components.

Bacon

When it comes to bacon, thicker slices are the way to go. Place the bacon on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil and bake it in a cold oven at 450 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 to 25 minutes. The result? Beautifully golden and perfectly cooked bacon that will make your taste buds sing.

Hash Browns

For the hash browns, grate some chunky rusted potatoes using a box grater. Squeeze out as much water as possible, then cook them in a non-stick pan with vegetable oil until they develop a nice crust. Season with salt and voila! Crispy and delicious hash browns.

Pancakes

Why settle for store-bought pancake mix when you can make your own in just a few minutes? Mix together your own batter and cook it in a non-stick pan until you achieve a dark golden brown color on both sides. Fluffy and flavorful, these homemade pancakes are worth the extra effort.

Eggs

Scrambled eggs are the go-to choice for an all-American breakfast. Whisk together eggs in a bowl, cook them in a pan with butter, and stir constantly until they reach a creamy, yet firm consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and you’ve got the perfect scrambled eggs to complete your breakfast plate.

Plating

To plate your all-American breakfast, start with a stack of pancakes, followed by a pat of butter, scrambled eggs, a sprinkle of black pepper and chives, hash browns, and finally, the crispy bacon. Enjoy each component individually or combine them for a nostalgic, comforting breakfast experience.

The Full English Breakfast

Now, let’s explore the full English breakfast, a hearty combination of beans, mushrooms, tomatoes, back bacon, sausages, and eggs. This breakfast is all about layers of flavor and a variety of textures.

Beans

No full English breakfast is complete without the beans. Start by simmering chicken stock, water, dark brown sugar, tomato paste, ketchup, garlic, and fresh sage in a sauce pot. Add drained navy beans and simmer until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and you’ve got a delicious and savory side dish.

Mushrooms and Tomatoes

In the same pan, cook your mushrooms and tomatoes with butter and extra virgin olive oil until they develop a nice color and become caramelized. The combination of earthy mushrooms and sweet tomatoes adds depth to the breakfast spread.

Back Bacon and Sausages

For the meat component, opt for English back bacon, which is the loin from the back of the pig. Sear it in a hot pan with a little oil until it gets some color and becomes tender. Optionally, you can also add mini smoked sausages for extra flavor. Sear them in the same pan until they’re nicely browned.

Eggs

Finish off the full English breakfast with sunny-side-up eggs. Melt butter in a skillet, crack the eggs into the pan, and let them cook until the whites are set. Baste the tops of the eggs with melted butter to add flavor and ensure perfect doneness.

Plating

To assemble your full English breakfast, start with the sunny-side-up eggs, followed by a sprinkle of black pepper and flaky salt. Add a generous helping of baked beans, sausages, back bacon, mushrooms, tomatoes, and don’t forget the toast on the side. This breakfast spread offers a multitude of flavors and textures that will satisfy even the heartiest of appetites.

The Verdict

So, which breakfast reigns supreme? The truth is, it’s a subjective choice. The all-American breakfast is a nostalgic, comforting meal with its fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, and savory hash browns. On the other hand, the full English breakfast offers a variety of flavors and textures that create a truly satisfying and indulgent eating experience. Whether you prefer the simplicity of the American breakfast or the complexity of the English breakfast, both are delicious in their own right.

Conclusion

Breakfast is a meal that sets the tone for the rest of the day. Whether you choose to indulge in the all-American breakfast or savor the flavors of the full English breakfast, both options provide a delightful start to the morning. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast, consider these two iconic dishes and let your taste buds guide you to the ultimate breakfast experience.