Buzz
Breakfast, often hailed as the most essential meal, has inspired chefs globally to create some of the most delectable dishes. While some morning delicacies have gained worldwide fame, others remain hidden gems unique to specific regions.
Whether it’s flaky pastries, savory eggs, crispy waffles, or hearty sausages, the variety of breakfast options across the globe is as vast as the number of people eager to savor them. If you’re ready to embark on a culinary adventure, here are ten international breakfast dishes you simply can’t miss.
10. Arepa (Venezuela)
Crafted from ground maize meal or flour, these round, flat patties are a staple in Venezuelan cuisine, often taking center stage at breakfast. Arepas can be cooked in numerous ways—grilled, baked, fried, boiled, or steamed—making them a versatile and beloved dish.
The appearance, taste, and size of an arepa can differ depending on the region, as can the delightful mix of ingredients stuffed inside. Popular fillings include avocados, chicken, eggs, and the savory Venezuelan white cheese. For a more substantial meal, beans, salad, or a variety of meats can also be added.
With over 70 unique preparation methods in neighboring Colombia, it’s no wonder the arepa has been a culinary cornerstone in northern South America for thousands of years—its appeal is as clear as its flavor is irresistible.
9. Silog (Philippines)
Silog is a beloved Filipino breakfast featuring fried eggs and sinangag (garlic fried rice). Originally known as tapsilog, which included beef tapa, this dish gained such popularity that it transitioned from a late-night remedy to a staple on breakfast menus at restaurants and fast-food chains.
Every silog variation centers around garlic-fried rice, typically paired with a fried egg. Beyond that, the dish offers endless possibilities, with countless variations that are as visually appealing as they are delicious.
To simplify, here are some of the most well-known silog variations: hotsilog (featuring hot dogs, fried rice, and fried eggs), tosilog (with cured pork, fried rice, and fried eggs), and longsilog (made with Filipino-style sausages, fried rice, and fried eggs). Craving silog yet?
8. Menemen (Turkey)
Originating from Turkey’s Izmir province, menemen is a traditional tomato-based dish that adds a flavorful kick to your mornings. This dish combines finely chopped or grated tomatoes with sautéed green chili peppers and scrambled eggs, seasoned with spices like black pepper, red pepper, oregano, and garlic. Typically served in metal pans with a side of bread, menemen is enjoyed by scooping it up directly with the bread, eliminating the need for utensils.
For breakfast or brunch, chefs often omit onions, which are more common in lunch or dinner versions. However, many menemen enthusiasts passionately advocate for their inclusion. Some variations also incorporate cheese, spinach, or sausage, making this dish a delightful reason to get out of bed.
7. Ful Medames (Egypt)
Dating back to ancient Egypt, ful medames has been a staple for both commoners and pharaohs to curb morning hunger. This timeless dish features slow-cooked fava beans and chickpeas, seasoned with lemon juice, parsley, cumin, chili pepper, and onion. It’s often served with hard-boiled eggs, pita bread, and diced vegetables for added flavor and texture.
Traditionally, ful medames is served in the same large metal pot it’s cooked in. A beloved dish across Africa and the Middle East, and Egypt’s national dish, ful medames has inspired countless variations over the centuries.
In some regions, it’s prepared like hummus, with tahini, tomatoes, olive oil, and green peppers. Others use split green peas, Aleppo pepper sauce, or a spicier blend of coriander, peppercorn, and saffron. Its enduring popularity is evident, as traces of the dish have even been found in ancient tombs.
6. Syrniki (Russia)
If traditional pancakes no longer excite you, it’s time to try Russia’s beloved syrniki. Made from quark, a soft farmer’s cheese, these hand-sized cakes are mixed with eggs, flour, and sugar, sometimes enhanced with vanilla extract. Cooked on a griddle until golden, they retain a creamy interior that makes them irresistible.
The batter can be enriched with raisins, chopped dried apricots, apples, or pears, while savory versions may include onions or sour cream. When served, syrniki are often accompanied by fresh berries, honey, or jam. One bite of this Eastern European delicacy, and you’ll have a new favorite way to enjoy pancakes: syrniki!
5. Gallo Pinto (Costa Rica)
Gallo pinto is a beloved breakfast dish in Costa Rica and Nicaragua, featuring a hearty mix of beans and rice. It’s typically enhanced with cooked bell peppers, coriander, chopped onions, and garlic. Locals often flavor it with salsa Lizano, a tangy brown sauce similar to Worcestershire or HP sauce.
Regional variations of gallo pinto abound. In Valle Central, it’s made with black beans, cilantro, and chili seasoning, resulting in a moister, less greasy version. In Guanacaste, red beans are preferred, creating a richer, fattier dish akin to Nicaraguan recipes.
The name gallo pinto, meaning “spotted rooster” in Spanish, refers to the dish’s speckled appearance from the mix of black and red beans. However, the aroma and sizzle of this dish cooking in the morning might just render the rooster’s crow unnecessary!
4. Shakshuka (Israel)
Looking to spice up your mornings? Give shakshuka a try! Originating from the Arabic word for 'mixture,' shakshuka is a budget-friendly, simple-to-prepare dish perfect for any meal. It features a rich, spicy tomato sauce made with olive oil, peppers, onions, and garlic, seasoned with cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. The dish is finished with poached or hard-cooked eggs cracked directly into the sauce, allowing the yolks to set perfectly.
Shakshuka is often served with various types of bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. Popular choices include pita, homemade flatbread, crusty rustic bread, challah, or crispy latkes. The best part? If you have leftovers, the sauce doubles as a delicious pasta topping for dinner!
3. Belgian Waffle (Belgium)
While Belgian waffles may resemble their American counterparts, they stand out with their deeper squares and superior texture, designed to hold an array of delightful toppings. From whipped cream and fresh fruit to melted butter and maple syrup, Belgian waffles are a breakfast icon worth savoring.
The batter, crafted from brioche dough and mixed with pearl sugar, gives Belgian waffles their signature light texture and delicate crunch—a treat for both your ears and taste buds. Unlike American waffles, Belgian waffles are traditionally eaten by hand, so don’t shy away from getting a little sticky. For those who love a hearty breakfast, this twist on a classic is a must-try.
2. Chilaquiles (Mexico)
Craving enchiladas for breakfast? Chilaquiles, a beloved Mexican dish, makes it possible! Quartered corn tortillas are lightly fried or baked, then softened with either green or red salsa. They’re topped with shredded chicken, cheese, onions, and scrambled or fried eggs. Common garnishes include crema, crumbled queso fresco, and avocado slices, while refried beans and guacamole make perfect sides.
The key to distinguishing chilaquiles variations lies in the sauce. Some use a tomato and chili base (rojos), while others prefer a blend of jalapeño, lime, and cilantro (verdes). Whether red or green, both are delicious. The name “chilaquiles” comes from the Nahuatl word “chīlāquilitl,” meaning “chiles and greens.”
1. Churros con Chocolate (Spain)
Though the origins of this fried-dough delight are as twisted as its shape, churros—specifically churros con chocolate—are a cherished breakfast tradition from Spain. The combination of crispy, cinnamon-sugar-coated churros and a steaming cup of rich hot chocolate creates an unforgettable pairing of food and drink.
Whether you prefer sipping, dipping, or dunking, there are plenty of chocolatey options to enjoy with your churros. Champurrado offers a thicker texture, dulce de leche provides a caramelized milk sauce, and café con leche blends strong coffee with scalded milk for a robust flavor.
Churros con chocolate is especially popular in Madrid, inspiring regional variations both within and beyond the city. Porras, a savory twist, features a shorter, thicker shape and a melted cheese filling. Meanwhile, tejeringo, a thinner, circular version, hails from Granada. No matter how you enjoy your churros, don’t forget the chocolate!
