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Breakfast is often hailed as the most important meal of the day, and when it comes to starting your morning off right, there’s no better way than with a delicious and nourishing Asian breakfast.
From steaming bowls of rice porridge to crispy, flaky breads, Asian breakfast dishes offer an exciting array of flavors and textures that cater to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences.
Whether you’re in the mood for something savory, sweet, or a little bit of both, Asian cuisine has something special to offer.
In this article, we’re diving into 30+ Asian Breakfast Recipes that are easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for energizing your day.
From traditional favorites like Japanese tamagoyaki and Chinese congee, to lesser-known delights like Filipino pandesal and Thai sticky rice, you’ll discover a variety of options to satisfy every craving.
These recipes are not only delicious but also provide unique ingredients and cooking methods that can help spice up your morning routine.
30+ Nutritious Asian Breakfast Recipes for a Balanced Morning
Asian breakfasts are more than just meals—they’re a celebration of culture, tradition, and bold flavors.
From the comforting simplicity of congee to the vibrant complexity of savory dumplings, these dishes offer a beautiful balance of taste, nutrition, and texture.
By adding a few Asian-inspired breakfasts to your repertoire, you can enjoy a nutritious start to your day while exploring new culinary horizons.
So, whether you’re looking for something quick and easy or ready to spend a bit more time in the kitchen, there’s a recipe for every occasion.
Try out these 30+ Asian breakfast recipes, and you’ll find yourself reaching for more of these delicious dishes every morning.
Congee with Century Egg and Pork
Congee is a comforting and versatile Asian breakfast dish that is perfect for a leisurely morning or a quick meal on the go. Popular across East and Southeast Asia, this creamy rice porridge is elevated with savory century egg and tender pork. Packed with umami flavors, it’s a warm and hearty dish that can be customized with various toppings to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 8 cups water or chicken stock
- 200g ground pork
- 2 century eggs, diced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, julienned
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and white pepper to taste
- Garnishes: chopped scallions, fried shallots, or a drizzle of chili oil
Instructions:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a large pot, bring the water or chicken stock to a boil. Add the rice and reduce the heat to a simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Let the rice cook for 45–60 minutes until it breaks down and achieves a porridge-like consistency. Add more water if needed.
- While the congee simmers, mix the ground pork with soy sauce and a pinch of white pepper. Set aside.
- Add the seasoned pork to the congee, stirring well to break it apart. Cook for 10 minutes or until fully cooked.
- Stir in the diced century egg and sesame oil. Adjust seasoning with salt and white pepper.
- Serve hot with your choice of garnishes.
This classic congee with century egg and pork is a dish steeped in tradition and flavor. Its warm, creamy texture makes it a satisfying way to start your day, especially during cooler months. The combination of century egg and pork creates a balance of bold and comforting flavors, while the toppings add a delightful crunch. Whether you’re making it for yourself or your family, this congee is sure to become a breakfast favorite.
Korean Scallion Pancakes (Pajeon)
Pajeon, or Korean scallion pancakes, are a savory breakfast treat that’s crispy on the outside and tender inside. This dish is perfect for those who love a combination of textures and flavors. Quick to whip up with pantry staples, Pajeon can be enjoyed plain or with added seafood like shrimp or squid for an extra layer of indulgence. Pair it with a tangy soy dipping sauce for the ultimate breakfast experience.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup rice flour
- 1 1/2 cups cold water
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 bunch scallions, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup seafood (optional: shrimp, squid, or oysters)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the dipping sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rice flour, cold water, and beaten egg to form a smooth batter.
- Add the scallions and seafood (if using) to the batter, mixing gently.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour half the batter into the pan, spreading it evenly.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes on one side until golden brown and crispy, then flip and cook for another 3 minutes. Repeat with the remaining batter.
- In a small bowl, mix all the dipping sauce ingredients.
- Serve the Pajeon hot with the dipping sauce on the side.
Korean scallion pancakes are an easy yet flavorful way to elevate your breakfast routine. The crispy exterior and soft, savory interior make them irresistible. Whether enjoyed as a quick meal or shared with family, Pajeon brings a taste of Korea to your table. The soy dipping sauce perfectly complements the pancake’s flavors, making it an essential accompaniment.
Thai Shrimp and Basil Omelette
This Thai-inspired shrimp and basil omelette is a quick and protein-packed breakfast option bursting with bold flavors. The fragrant Thai basil and succulent shrimp combine beautifully with fluffy eggs, offering a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. It’s a perfect introduction to Thai cuisine and is guaranteed to brighten up your morning.
Ingredients:
- 3 large eggs
- 100g small shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, fish sauce, and sugar until well combined.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and shrimp, cooking until the shrimp turn pink (about 2 minutes).
- Add the Thai basil leaves to the pan and cook for 1 minute until wilted.
- Pour the beaten eggs over the shrimp and basil. Swirl the pan to distribute evenly.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes until the edges set, then flip the omelette carefully and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Slide the omelette onto a plate and serve hot with steamed jasmine rice or a side of chili sauce.
This Thai shrimp and basil omelette is a flavorful, nutritious breakfast option that’s perfect for busy mornings or weekend brunches. The aromatic basil and juicy shrimp add a unique twist to a classic omelette, creating a dish that’s both exotic and comforting. Pair it with jasmine rice for a complete and satisfying start to your day.
Japanese Tamago Sushi (Egg Sushi)
Tamago Sushi is a Japanese breakfast dish that features a sweet, savory omelette (tamago) served on a bed of sushi rice and wrapped in nori. It’s a perfect way to enjoy eggs in a new, delightful way while also incorporating traditional Japanese flavors. This dish is commonly served for breakfast or as part of a larger Japanese breakfast spread and is adored for its slightly sweet flavor and beautiful presentation.
Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon mirin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cups sushi rice, cooked
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar (for sushi rice)
- 6–8 sheets nori (seaweed)
- Wasabi and pickled ginger for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk the eggs, sugar, soy sauce, mirin, and salt together until fully combined.
- Heat a non-stick pan and lightly oil it with a paper towel. Pour a thin layer of egg mixture into the pan, tilting the pan to spread it evenly.
- Once the egg is almost set, roll it up from one end and push it to the far side of the pan. Add another thin layer of egg and roll it up again, overlapping the previous roll. Repeat until all the egg mixture is used.
- Allow the tamago to cool slightly before slicing into small, bite-sized pieces.
- For the sushi rice, season the cooked rice with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Mix gently to incorporate.
- To assemble, take a small portion of sushi rice, mold it into an oval shape, and place a slice of tamago on top. Wrap a strip of nori around the rice and tamago, securing the sushi.
- Serve with wasabi and pickled ginger on the side, if desired.
Tamago Sushi is a beautiful and satisfying breakfast that adds a touch of Japanese tradition to your morning. The sweet, savory tamago omelette paired with vinegared rice and the slight crunch of nori creates a delightful combination. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just a unique breakfast, this dish is sure to impress. It’s a perfect choice for those looking to try something new and delicious at the start of the day.
Vietnamese Bánh Mì (Vietnamese Sandwich)
Bánh Mì is a famous Vietnamese sandwich that blends the richness of French colonial influence with traditional Vietnamese flavors. This breakfast version typically includes savory meats, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs all tucked into a crispy baguette. With its harmonious balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, Bánh Mì makes for a satisfying and portable breakfast option, whether you’re on the go or sitting down to enjoy at home.
Ingredients:
- 1 baguette (fresh and crusty)
- 100g cooked pork belly or grilled chicken
- 1/4 cup pickled carrots and daikon (or store-bought)
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Sliced cucumber
- 1–2 fresh chili peppers, sliced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions:
- Slice the baguette in half horizontally, leaving one side intact to form a pocket.
- In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil together. Spread the sauce mixture evenly on both sides of the baguette.
- Layer the cooked pork belly or grilled chicken on the bottom half of the baguette.
- Add pickled carrots, daikon, cucumber slices, and chili peppers (if using).
- Top with fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of color and flavor.
- Close the sandwich and serve immediately, or wrap it tightly for a breakfast on the go.
Bánh Mì is the perfect combination of crunchy, savory, and fresh ingredients that can be enjoyed as a filling breakfast or brunch. The baguette’s crispy exterior and soft interior hold the delicious filling together, while the pickled vegetables add a tangy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the savory meat and creamy sauce. Easy to customize with your favorite fillings, this Vietnamese sandwich brings a delightful touch of street food to your morning.
Chinese Jianbing (Chinese Crepes)
Jianbing is a popular street food in China, often eaten for breakfast, and it’s essentially a savory crepe filled with a variety of flavorful ingredients. The crispy crepe is spread with a layer of hoisin sauce, topped with fresh herbs, and often filled with egg, Chinese sausage, or crispy wonton strips. It’s a delightful mix of textures and tastes that’s sure to fuel you for the day ahead.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup rice flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/4 cups water
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili paste (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/4 cup scallions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crispy wonton strips (optional)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 Chinese sausages, sliced thin (optional)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rice flour, salt, and water to make a thin batter.
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly coat with vegetable oil.
- Pour a small amount of batter into the pan, swirling to form a thin layer.
- Once the crepe sets, crack an egg into the center and gently spread it over the crepe. Let it cook for a minute or two.
- Brush the top of the crepe with hoisin sauce and chili paste if desired. Add a sprinkle of cilantro, scallions, crispy wonton strips, and Chinese sausage (if using).
- Fold the edges of the crepe over the filling and flip it carefully. Cook for another minute until crispy and golden brown.
- Serve hot with extra hoisin sauce on the side for dipping.
Jianbing is a breakfast that brings a rich blend of flavors, textures, and aromas all in one bite. The crispy crepe, warm egg, and fragrant herbs create a deliciously satisfying meal that’s perfect for those who enjoy a hearty and flavorful breakfast. The versatility of ingredients also makes it easy to customize with your favorite toppings, making Jianbing a go-to dish for both beginners and seasoned foodies alike.
Filipino Longganisa Breakfast (Longganisa with Garlic Rice)
Longganisa is a popular Filipino breakfast sausage made from ground pork, seasoned with a variety of sweet and savory spices. Paired with garlic rice (sinangag), it makes for a hearty and flavorful breakfast that is perfect to kick-start your day. This dish is a beloved comfort food in the Philippines, known for its savory-sweet taste and satisfying combination of textures.
Ingredients:
- 4 longganisa sausages (or substitute with any sweet or garlic sausage)
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold, day-old rice works best)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fried eggs for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the longganisa sausages until browned and cooked through, about 8–10 minutes. Set aside and keep warm.
- In the same pan, add the remaining oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the cold rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Stir fry the rice with garlic until well combined.
- Season the rice with soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper. Continue to fry for another 3–4 minutes, until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy.
- Serve the longganisa alongside the garlic rice, topped with a fried egg if desired.
Filipino longganisa with garlic rice is the epitome of a satisfying breakfast. The sweet and savory sausage pairs perfectly with the aromatic, slightly crispy garlic rice, making for a delicious, energizing start to your day. Whether served with a fried egg or on its own, this dish is sure to fill you up and provide the perfect balance of flavors to jumpstart your morning.
Malaysian Nasi Lemak
Nasi Lemak is often considered the national dish of Malaysia, traditionally eaten for breakfast. It consists of fragrant coconut rice served with spicy sambal, crispy fried anchovies, boiled egg, and cucumber slices. The richness of the coconut rice combined with the spicy sambal creates a unique combination of savory and sweet flavors, making this dish a beloved choice to begin the day.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup water
- 1 pandan leaf (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, halved
- 1/4 cup fried anchovies
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
- 3 tablespoons sambal (spicy chili paste)
- Sliced cucumber for garnish
Instructions:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a saucepan, combine the rice, coconut milk, water, pandan leaf (if using), and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- While the rice is cooking, prepare the sambal, fried anchovies, and roasted peanuts.
- To serve, place a scoop of coconut rice on a plate and garnish with a hard-boiled egg, fried anchovies, roasted peanuts, sambal, and cucumber slices.
- Enjoy with a cup of hot tea or a cold beverage of your choice.
Nasi Lemak is a dish that embodies the rich, bold flavors of Malaysia. The creamy coconut rice paired with spicy sambal, savory anchovies, and fresh cucumber creates a breakfast that is as flavorful as it is satisfying. This dish is perfect for those who love a balanced breakfast with layers of complex textures and tastes. It’s a great way to start your day with something hearty and traditional.
Chinese Steamed Buns (Mantou)
Mantou, or Chinese steamed buns, are soft, fluffy, and lightly sweetened buns that are often enjoyed as a breakfast snack or side dish in Chinese cuisine. They are typically served with a variety of fillings like red bean paste, pork, or simply enjoyed plain. These buns are a comforting and versatile breakfast option that’s perfect for pairing with tea or as part of a larger meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- In a bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in warm water. Let sit for about 5–10 minutes until frothy.
- Add the flour, salt, baking powder, and vegetable oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into small balls (about 12 pieces).
- Shape each ball into a bun by rolling it into a round shape. Place each bun on a small square of parchment paper.
- Arrange the buns in a steamer basket, leaving space between them. Steam over boiling water for about 15 minutes.
- Once cooked, remove the buns from the steamer and serve warm with tea or as part of your breakfast spread.
Chinese steamed buns, or mantou, are a beloved breakfast food known for their soft, airy texture and slightly sweet flavor. These buns are perfect on their own or paired with savory fillings for a more substantial breakfast. The steaming process keeps the buns incredibly soft, making them a comforting and satisfying way to start the day. Mantou can easily be prepared in advance and enjoyed as a snack or part of a larger meal, offering both convenience and flavor.
Japanese Tamago Sushi (Egg Sushi)
Tamago Sushi, also known as “Tamagoyaki” sushi, is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of a sweet, layered omelette (tamago) served atop a small mound of sushi rice and wrapped with a strip of nori (seaweed). It’s commonly enjoyed as a breakfast item in Japan, providing a balance of sweet and savory flavors with a satisfying texture. It’s not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a perfect dish to start your day.
Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon mirin (sweet rice wine)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 cups cooked sushi rice
- 1 sheet nori (seaweed), cut into strips
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together eggs, soy sauce, mirin, and sugar.
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat and add a small amount of oil to coat the bottom of the pan.
- Pour in a thin layer of the egg mixture, swirling to cover the bottom of the skillet. As it begins to set, gently roll the omelette toward one side of the pan.
- Add another layer of egg mixture, tilting the pan to spread it evenly. When this layer begins to set, roll the omelette again. Repeat this process until all the egg mixture is used, forming a layered, rolled omelette.
- Remove the tamago from the pan and let it cool slightly. Slice it into pieces.
- To prepare the sushi rice, mix the cooked rice with rice vinegar, salt, and sugar.
- To assemble the sushi, form small mounds of sushi rice and press a slice of tamago on top of each mound. Secure the tamago with a strip of nori.
Tamago Sushi is a light and flavorful breakfast option that brings together the delicate sweetness of tamago with the tangy flavor of seasoned rice. The layering technique for the omelette creates a rich texture, and when paired with the slightly vinegary sushi rice, it becomes a satisfying meal that is both nutritious and comforting. Whether served as part of a larger Japanese breakfast or on its own, Tamago Sushi is sure to leave you feeling energized and satisfied.
Korean Banchan (Assorted Side Dishes)
Korean breakfasts often include a variety of small side dishes, collectively known as banchan, which can range from fermented vegetables to pickled radishes and sautéed greens. This assortment of flavors offers a refreshing and nutrient-dense start to the day, providing various textures and tastes that complement each other. Served with a bowl of steamed rice, banchan is an essential part of Korean cuisine and a perfect way to begin your morning.
Ingredients for Banchan Selection (Choose 3-4 of the following):
- Kimchi (fermented cabbage)
- Seasoned Spinach (Sigeumchi Namul)
- Cucumber Kimchi (Oi Kimchi)
- Pickled Radish (Danmuji)
- Korean Stir-fried Potatoes (Gamja Bokkeum)
- Egg Banchan (Gyeranjjim)
Instructions:
- Kimchi: Simply prepare store-bought or homemade kimchi by fermenting cabbage with gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), garlic, ginger, fish sauce, and salt. Let it ferment for at least 2–3 days.
- Seasoned Spinach (Sigeumchi Namul): Blanch spinach in hot water for a few seconds. Squeeze out excess water, then season with sesame oil, sesame seeds, garlic, and soy sauce.
- Cucumber Kimchi (Oi Kimchi): Thinly slice cucumber and season with garlic, chili flakes, sugar, vinegar, and salt. Let it sit for 30 minutes for the flavors to meld.
- Pickled Radish (Danmuji): Slice yellow radish into thin rounds. Pickle with vinegar, sugar, salt, and turmeric. Let it sit for at least an hour before serving.
- Korean Stir-fried Potatoes (Gamja Bokkeum): Peel and slice potatoes into small cubes. Stir-fry with garlic and soy sauce until golden and tender.
- Egg Banchan (Gyeranjjim): Whisk eggs with a pinch of salt and steam them in a small bowl until fluffy and fully cooked.
Korean banchan is a dynamic and nutritious breakfast option, offering an array of small, flavorful dishes that combine sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements. Each component of banchan provides a different texture, from crispy kimchi to tender spinach and crunchy pickles. Paired with steamed rice, banchan is a well-rounded breakfast that nourishes the body with a variety of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, making it a perfect, balanced start to the day.
Thai Jok (Thai Rice Porridge)
Jok, or Thai rice porridge, is a warm and comforting breakfast traditionally eaten in Thailand. The dish is made by simmering rice until it breaks down into a creamy, porridge-like consistency. It’s often served with various toppings, such as ground pork, century egg, and fresh herbs, offering a savory and satisfying meal. Thai Jok is perfect for those seeking a nourishing breakfast that is both filling and easy to digest.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup jasmine rice
- 6 cups chicken or pork broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 2 boiled eggs, sliced
- 1 stalk green onion, chopped
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a large pot, bring the chicken or pork broth to a boil. Add the rice and cook over medium heat for about 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice has broken down and the mixture has a creamy consistency.
- In a separate pan, cook the ground pork with ginger, soy sauce, fish sauce, white pepper, and sugar. Cook until browned and cooked through.
- To serve, spoon the rice porridge into bowls. Top with the cooked ground pork, boiled eggs, green onions, and cilantro.
- Serve hot, with additional soy sauce or chili oil if desired.
Thai Jok is a flavorful and soothing breakfast dish, ideal for those who enjoy a savory, warming meal to start their day. The porridge’s creamy texture is balanced by the richness of the ground pork and the freshness of herbs, making it a satisfying and wholesome choice. This comforting dish can be customized with various toppings, such as century eggs or fried garlic, adding extra layers of flavor to each spoonful.
Vietnamese Bánh Mì (Vietnamese Sandwich)
Bánh Mì, a Vietnamese sandwich, is a fusion of French and Vietnamese flavors, commonly enjoyed for breakfast in Vietnam. It features a crispy baguette filled with a variety of savory ingredients like grilled meats, pickled vegetables, herbs, and a spread of mayonnaise or pâté. This sandwich is quick to prepare, full of contrasting textures, and offers a burst of delicious flavors. Its versatility makes it a perfect breakfast on the go, providing both freshness and heartiness to kickstart your day.
Ingredients:
- 1 baguette (or small French rolls)
- 1/2 pound grilled pork (or chicken, beef, or tofu)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon pâté (optional)
- 1/4 cup pickled carrots and daikon (or store-bought pickled vegetables)
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Sliced cucumber
- Sliced jalapeño (optional for heat)
- Soy sauce (for drizzling)
Instructions:
- Slice the baguette into individual portions. Lightly toast the bread to make it crispy on the outside.
- Spread mayonnaise and a thin layer of pâté on the inside of the baguette.
- Layer the grilled pork (or preferred protein), pickled vegetables, cucumber slices, and fresh cilantro inside the bread.
- Add a few slices of jalapeño if you like a little heat.
- Drizzle a bit of soy sauce or fish sauce for added flavor.
- Serve immediately while the bread is still crisp.
Bánh Mì is a perfect breakfast option when you’re looking for something flavorful, filling, and quick. The crispy baguette pairs wonderfully with the savory filling of grilled meat, creamy mayonnaise, tangy pickles, and fresh herbs. This sandwich provides a satisfying combination of textures and flavors, from crunchy to tender, making it a beloved choice for breakfast or even lunch. Its versatility allows for endless variations depending on your preference for fillings, making it a timeless classic.
Chinese Congee (Rice Porridge)
Congee, or Chinese rice porridge, is a warm, comforting dish typically enjoyed for breakfast across many Asian cultures. The rice is slow-cooked in water or broth until it breaks down into a smooth, creamy texture. It can be topped with various savory ingredients like pickled vegetables, boiled eggs, or stir-fried meats. Congee is often considered a nourishing meal, perfect for starting the day with something light yet satisfying. It’s especially ideal when you’re looking for a soothing and digestible meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 8 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon ginger, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 boiled eggs, halved
- 1/2 cup cooked chicken (shredded) or other meat (optional)
- Sliced scallions
- Pickled vegetables (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a large pot, combine the rice, water or broth, and ginger. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Add more water if necessary to maintain a porridge-like consistency.
- Once the rice has broken down and the porridge is smooth, season with soy sauce and sesame oil.
- Serve the congee in bowls, topped with boiled eggs, cooked chicken (if using), sliced scallions, pickled vegetables, and cilantro.
- For extra flavor, drizzle with a bit more sesame oil or soy sauce.
Chinese Congee is an excellent breakfast choice when you want something simple yet incredibly comforting. The slow-cooked rice creates a creamy texture that is soothing for the stomach, while the toppings provide additional flavor and nutrition. This versatile dish can be made ahead of time, and you can easily switch up the toppings to suit your preferences. Whether you enjoy it plain or fully loaded with meats and vegetables, congee is a perfect way to warm up and nourish your body in the morning.
Malaysian Roti Canai with Dahl (Flatbread with Lentil Soup)
Roti Canai is a beloved Malaysian flatbread that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It’s commonly served with a side of dahl, a flavorful lentil soup, making for a hearty and filling breakfast. The combination of the warm, flaky bread and the rich, spicy lentil soup offers a balanced and delicious meal that keeps you energized throughout the morning. Roti Canai is often eaten with hands, which adds to the experience of enjoying this traditional Malaysian dish.
Ingredients for Roti Canai:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup ghee or butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
Ingredients for Dahl:
- 1 cup yellow lentils (moong dal or toor dal)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- For the Roti Canai:
- In a bowl, mix the flour, salt, sugar, and water to form a dough. Knead until smooth, then cover and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
- Divide the dough into small balls and flatten each one into a thin, round shape. Brush with ghee or butter, then fold the edges to form a square. Roll out the dough again into a thin layer.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and cook each roti for 2–3 minutes on each side, pressing down with a spatula to make it crispy and golden brown.
- For the Dahl:
- Rinse the lentils under cold water and cook them in a pot with water until soft (about 25 minutes).
- In a separate pan, heat oil and sauté onions, garlic, ginger, and tomatoes until softened. Add the turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala, and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the cooked lentils to the spice mixture, stir, and simmer for an additional 10–15 minutes until the flavors have melded together.
- Serve the warm roti with a bowl of dahl and garnish with fresh cilantro.
Malaysian Roti Canai with Dahl is a delicious and satisfying breakfast that combines the crispy goodness of roti with the warmth and richness of spiced lentils. The soft and flaky bread pairs wonderfully with the savory, hearty dahl, making it a perfect choice for those looking for a filling and flavorful breakfast. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly mornings or when you need a meal that will keep you full and energized throughout the day.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!