10 Bizarre American Breakfast Choices For Foreigners
10 Bizarre American Breakfast Choices For Foreigners
American breakfasts can be quite a surprise for visitors from other countries. Known for their unique combinations and hearty portions, these meals can range from sweet and savory mixes to deeply traditional dishes that have been enjoyed for generations. Here’s a look at ten breakfast choices that might seem bizarre to those unfamiliar with American morning cuisine.
1. Chicken and Waffles
Combining sweet waffles with crispy fried chicken might sound odd, but it’s a beloved dish in America. This dish blends the soft, sweet taste of waffles with the savory, spicy kick of fried chicken, creating a contrast that many Americans love. It’s a popular choice in many restaurants and a must-try for those looking to experience genuine American flavors.
2. Biscuits and Gravy
Biscuits and gravy is a classic Southern breakfast. The dish consists of soft, flaky biscuits smothered in a thick, creamy sausage gravy. It’s a filling meal that’s particularly loved in the southern United States and might be quite different from traditional breakfasts in other parts of the world.
3. Grits
Grits are a staple in American Southern cuisine. This breakfast choice involves ground corn turned into a creamy porridge, often enhanced with butter, cheese, or even shrimp. While simple, grits are a comforting meal that holds a special place in many American hearts.
4. Sugary Cereals
In the U.S., breakfast cereals are often incredibly sweet. Brands market these cereals with bright colors and fun shapes, targeting children but enjoyed by adults as well. The high sugar content can be a shock to foreigners who are used to more subdued breakfast flavors.
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5. Pop-Tarts
Pop-Tarts are a quick, pre-packaged breakfast option that consists of thin pastries filled with various sweet fillings and topped with frosting. These toaster pastries are popular for their convenience and variety of flavors, though their sweetness and artificial ingredients often surprise non-Americans.
6. Breakfast Burritos
The breakfast burrito is a hearty start to the day, wrapping eggs, potatoes, cheese, and sometimes meat like bacon or sausage, all inside a soft flour tortilla. It’s a fusion of Mexican and American tastes that packs a lot of flavor and sustenance into one convenient package.
7. Bagels and Cream Cheese with Lox
Bagels topped with cream cheese and lox (smoked salmon) is a breakfast favorite, particularly in cities with a strong Jewish influence like New York. The combination of soft, chewy bagel with creamy cheese and salty salmon is cherished by many but might be unexpected for those new to American breakfast choices.
8. Country Ham
Country ham is an intensely flavored, very salty ham that’s often served in slices with biscuits or as part of a larger breakfast platter. This type of ham is cured, smoked, and aged, giving it a distinctive taste that can be quite strong for those not accustomed to it.
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9. Hash Browns
Hash browns are a common breakfast side in the U.S., made from shredded or diced potatoes that are then fried until crispy. They’re often served alongside eggs and bacon, providing a crunchy texture contrast to the other components of an American breakfast plate.
10. Pancakes with Bacon
Pancakes served with bacon combine the sweetness of thick, fluffy pancakes drenched in syrup with the salty crunch of crispy bacon. This combination is a favorite in American diners and homes, offering a filling and satisfying start to the day.
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We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.