Breakfast Culture Shock: What Surprised Me About Breakfasts in Different Countries
As a traveler, I have been fortunate enough to experience a variety of breakfast options in different countries. It’s interesting to see how breakfast varies in each culture, with some countries having a heavy breakfast while others prefer light options. Here are some surprising things I discovered about breakfasts in different countries.
Japan
The Japanese breakfast is probably one of the most unique breakfasts I have ever had. Instead of toast or cereal, they serve a hearty meal consisting of rice, miso soup, grilled fish, and pickled vegetables. It was a bit of a culture shock to have such a heavy breakfast, but I must say that it kept me full for a long time.
Thailand
One of the most popular breakfast options in Thailand is Congee, which is a rice porridge that is often topped with vegetables, meat, or fish. Noodle soup is also a common breakfast staple in Thailand. It was an interesting experience to have savory soup for breakfast, but it definitely hit the spot.
France
The French breakfast is well-known around the world for its delicious croissants and coffee. However, it was a shock to me to find out that the French usually have a light breakfast consisting of a croissant or pastry alongside coffee or tea. Compared to the hearty breakfasts in Japan and Thailand, it was quite different, but delicious nonetheless.
United States
The breakfast options in the United States are vast and diverse. While some people opt for lighter options such as a bagel or toast, others prefer a hearty breakfast of pancakes or waffles with bacon and eggs. One thing that surprised me the most was the serving size. In most restaurants, the serving sizes are huge, and I struggled to finish my meal.
Colombia
In Colombia, breakfast usually consists of arepas, which are flatbreads made from corn or maize flour. Arepas are often served with cheese, butter, or meat, and sometimes even stuffed with eggs or chicken. It was a unique breakfast experience, and I loved how versatile the arepas were.
Conclusion
Breakfast is a meal that varies significantly across different cultures. From hearty meals in Japan and Thailand to light options in France, every country has its breakfast traditions. As a traveler, it’s important to embrace these traditions and try new things. I hope this article has given you some food for thought on your next breakfast adventure.