Traditional English Breakfast
This English breakfast recipe is a hearty, classic morning meal packed with protein, vegetables, and flavor. It includes staples like crispy bacon, savory sausages, creamy baked beans, and perfectly cooked eggs, complemented by grilled mushrooms and tomatoes. It’s a filling and delicious start to the day, ideal for weekends or special occasions.
Equipment
- Non-stick skillet – For frying bacon, sausages, and eggs.
- Grill pan – To achieve the charred flavor on tomatoes and mushrooms.
- Small saucepan – To warm baked beans.
- Toaster or frying pan – For preparing toast or fried bread.
Ingredients
Proteins:
- 4 slices back bacon substitute with turkey bacon if preferred
- 4 pork sausages vegetarian or chicken sausages as alternatives
- 2 slices black pudding optional but authentic
- 4 large eggs
Vegetables:
- 2 medium tomatoes halved
- 1 cup button or Portobello mushrooms sliced
Other Components:
- 1 cup baked beans
- 4 slices of bread for toast or frying
- 2 tablespoons butter or oil for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Accompaniments:
- Hash browns store-bought or homemade
- Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce for seasoning
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare All Ingredients
- Slice tomatoes in half and clean mushrooms.
- Open the can of baked beans and warm them in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Lay out all ingredients to ensure easy access during cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon and Sausages
- Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Add the back bacon and cook for 3 minutes on each side until crispy.
- Tip: Use a lower heat for thicker cuts to ensure they cook evenly without burning.
- Remove bacon and keep warm by covering it with foil.
- In the same pan, cook the sausages, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through (8-10 minutes).
Step 3: Grill the Tomatoes and Mushrooms
- Preheat a grill pan (or use the same skillet after wiping it down).
- Place the tomato halves cut-side up and the sliced mushrooms on the pan.
- Grill for 5-7 minutes, turning the mushrooms occasionally until tender and slightly charred.
Step 4: Prepare the Eggs
- Choose your preferred egg style:
- Fried Eggs: Heat a small amount of butter in a pan and cook the eggs sunny-side up or over easy, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Scrambled Eggs: Beat the eggs with a splash of milk, cook in a non-stick pan over low heat, and stir gently until creamy.
- Poached Eggs: Bring a pot of water to a gentle simmer, add a splash of vinegar, and poach eggs for 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Toast or Fry the Bread
- For toast: Use a toaster and spread butter after toasting.
- For fried bread: Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a pan and fry each slice of bread until golden brown on both sides.
Step 6: Assemble Your Full English Breakfast
- On each plate, arrange 2 slices of bacon, 2 sausages, 1 slice of black pudding, and 2 eggs.
- Add a portion of baked beans, a grilled tomato half, and a serving of mushrooms.
- Serve with 2 slices of toast or fried bread on the side.
Notes
Optional Additions
- Add hash browns for an American-inspired twist.
- Serve with condiments like ketchup, HP sauce, or Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.