Assembling the Perfect Brunch Plate with Breakfast Staples
The American breakfast is arguably one of the best meals on the planet. Yes, it’s calorie-dense, but it doesn’t change the immutable fact that it’s appropriate for any time of day—and especially brunch. While it may seem a bit chaotic in terms of flavour, with its careless mix of sweet and savoury, the variety can be part of its charm. We admit it’s not always the most nutritious… but that’s something you can easily fix with a little intervention and effort.
Whether you’re serving up a breakfast board, platter, or just your personal plate, Two Bakers can help you strike the perfect balance between indulgence and health. The trick is to combine various flavours and textures while making sure that each addition brings something to the table nutritionally. Integrating protein, carbs, fibre and more can create a well-rounded meal that keeps you satisfied for longer, sans the guilt.
Protein-Rich Staples
Smoked Salmon
Smoked salmon isn’t always a part of breakfast, but it’s a popular choice that stands out at brunch in many cuisines. Elegant and smoky, it can be savoured atop muffins and hollandaise sauce in your Eggs Benedict, where it shines best with creamy and tangy elements.
Eggs
So versatile and customisable, no breakfast plate is complete without eggs. From the fluffiness of scrambled eggs and the silken quality of poached eggs to the crisp and golden look of fried eggs, they are a staple that can level up your breakfast game when executed perfectly. Eggs are low in calories, and easily help you feel full.
Sausage, Bacon and Ham
These meats lend a rich, savoury flavour that offsets the sweetness of breakfast items like pancakes and fruit. They’re also incredibly comforting and hearty. The best part? You don’t have to choose just one—sausage is juicy, bacon is crispy, and ham is tender, so why not have a bit of everything? You can also get creative with how you prepare them—grilling, baking and frying all bring out different delicious qualities.
Carbohydrate Selections
Pancakes
Sweet and soft as a cloud, pancakes are a great base for all kinds of breakfast delights. If your sweet tooth is calling, load them up with fresh berries, whipped cream and a drizzle of maple syrup. But if you’re in the mood for something savoury, try them with smoked salmon or the aforementioned trio of sausage, bacon and ham. For a healthier twist, consider using whole grain flour in your pancake mix.
Butter Croissant
A quality croissant can go from being an underdog to the star of the show. The ideal croissant is crunchy on the outside and airy on the inside. It isn’t just filler for your stomach, it’s a buttery and flaky experience that envelops your senses and transports you to pastry paradise.
Sourdough
Sourdough is one of the few breads that comes with distinctive health benefits, thanks to the friendly bacteria that promote gut health. Moreover, its tangy flavour and crackly texture make it hard to resist, especially when topped with avocado, eggs and whatever else toppings you like.
Rosti and Tater Tots
Crispy, golden and full of comfort, rosti and tater tots are hands down one of the best indulgent additions to a hearty breakfast. They bring that satisfying crunch while keeping things warm and cosy. Rosti adds a touch of European flair, while tater tots give off an all-American vibe, making them both fun and universally loved choices for any substantial breakfast spread.
Fresh and Healthy Additions
Salad
Salads are often seen as the token healthy option in a sinful plate full of foods high in fat, calories and sugar. But they do more than just balance things out, adding a light, refreshing contrast to heavier meats, fried items and rich sides. And you’re mistaken if you think salads have to be all greens—tomatoes, peppers and even fruits like berries can bring brightness and texture to the toss.
Avocado
Avocados are considered a superfood because they’re packed with healthy fats, essential vitamins, minerals and plenty of dietary fibre. But that doesn’t make them any less tasty—especially at the breakfast table! One of the most popular ways to enjoy them is as a spread on toast, topped with a dash of salt, pepper and a squeeze of lemon.
Mushrooms
Earthy, savoury and full of umami, mushrooms are a fantastic addition to any breakfast plate. They bring a depth of flavour that complements rich breakfast items like eggs, bacon and sausage, while also providing a healthy dose of antioxidants, fibre, and essential vitamins like B and D. Sautéed in a little olive oil with garlic and herbs, they add a satisfying, almost meaty texture without the extra calories.
Final Tips for Balancing Your Plate
Mix and Match Flavours
When it comes to breakfast, combining flavours is where the magic happens. Don’t be shy about pairing sweet and savoury—imagine fluffy pancakes doused in maple syrup alongside crispy bacon. Or how about adding a splash of acidity to balance things out? A squirt of lemon over your smoked salmon can really brighten the dish. Get creative with bold flavours, and go big with combining juicy fruits, tangy sourdough, rich meats, and creamy avocados. The goal is to keep your taste buds excited and every bite a delightful surprise.
Pair Different Textures
Texture can take your brunch from ordinary to extraordinary. Try pairing crispy elements like tater tots or bacon with softer, creamier options such as scrambled eggs or avocado. The addictive crunch adds an extra layer of satisfaction, which could make the experience even more nuanced with a dose of freshness. For example, a crisp salad could provide a nice contrast to the creaminess of yoghurt.
Always Portion and Arrange
A balanced plate is as much about what you put on it as how you present it. Be mindful of portion sizes to keep things in check and avoid that overwhelming heaviness of too much food. Think of it like art—arrange your plate with an assortment of colours and textures to make it visually appealing. A pop of colour from fresh fruit or vibrant veggies can make all the difference. Plus, when you balance proteins, carbs, healthy fats, and the fresh stuff, you create a meal that’s not just nourishing but also a feast for the eyes.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to completely depart from the classic American breakfast to have a nourishing morning meal. By thoughtfully mixing flavours, pairing textures, and arranging your plate with care, you can create a brunch spread that’s both indulgent and healthy.
Come visit us at Two Bakers and let us create the perfect brunch platter together! Satisfy your cravings and keep your body filled and fueled up. Your taste buds, stomach, and soul will thank you.
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