Breakfasts

Around the World: Rice Takes Centre Stage

Thailand

Khao Tom, or rice soup, is a beloved breakfast staple in Thailand, especially cherished during the cooler months. This comforting dish features rice simmered in a flavourful broth, enhanced with a medley of seasonings that create a delightful harmony of tastes. Each bowl of khao tom is often garnished with aromatic fried garlic, fresh ginger, and vibrant cilantro, adding layers of flavour and texture. Accompanying this savoury soup are delectable sides such as a soft-boiled egg, dried meat, or succulent stir-fried pork. Together, these elements make for a hearty and nourishing meal that warms both the body and the soul.

China

In China, congee, also known as rice porridge, is a cherished breakfast favourite. This versatile dish can be prepared in countless ways, blending rice with various grains, vegetables, or meats and simmering it all in water to create a nourishing porridge. Typically enjoyed as a savoury meal, congee can be enriched with flavoursome additions like pickled vegetables, century eggs, or tender slices of pork. For those with a sweet tooth, congee can also be transformed into a delightful treat, garnished with condensed milk and dried fruits. Each spoonful of congee is a perfect way to start your day and a true taste of China's amazing food culture.

Indonesia 

Indonesia's flavourful treasure, Nasi Goreng, is a culinary sensation adored across Southeast Asia, from Malaysia to Singapore. This flavourful stir-fried rice combines vegetables, garlic, chilli peppers, and a medley of spices, creating a deliciously aromatic meal. 

But what makes it truly irresistible are the accompaniments: a perfectly fried egg crowning the dish, satay skewers dripping with savoury goodness, crisp cucumber and juicy tomatoes, crunchy krupuk (crackers), and the crowning glory — peanut sauce, adding a creamy, nutty finish.

Costa Rica

Gallo pinto, a popular breakfast dish in Costa Rica and Nicaragua, is a flavourful and hearty meal that captures the essence of Central American cuisine. This delightful dish features a base of rice and black beans, sautéed with onions, peppers, and garlic, creating a rich and aromatic medley of flavours. Garnished with fresh cilantro and cheese, gallo pinto is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. It is typically served with warm tortillas, creamy avocado, and eggs cooked to your liking. Packed with fibre and protein from the beans, gallo pinto not only delights the palate but also provides a nutritious and energising meal!

Who Says Rice Isn't for Mornings?

Here you go... Five amazing and hearty breakfast options where rice is the star of the show but seamlessly adapted to suit regional preferences and tastes. From Japane's traditional breakfast with varied side dishes to Thailand's Khao Tom rice soup with ginger and cilantro, and Costa Rica's Gallo Pinto with black beans, rice-based breakfasts offer a filling start to the day. But that's not all! Rice as a meal is economical and widely available for everyone to energise their mornings. Try some of these recipes at home and experience how satisfying a rice-based breakfast can be! Youre welcome!