Full breakfast

A full breakfast is a hearty, cooked meal that remains a beloved staple in the UK and Ireland. This dish includes a variety of delicious items such as bacon, sausages, eggs, black pudding, baked beans, tomatoes, mushrooms, toast, and a hot beverage—typically coffee or tea. The name and specific composition of this breakfast can vary by location. In England, it's known as a "full English breakfast" while in Ireland, it might be called a "full Irish." Similarly, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, and Northern Ireland have their own versions, known as the "full Scottish" "full Welsh" "full Cornish" and "Ulster fry" respectively.

This meal is not confined to the early hours; in Britain and Ireland, it is often available all day in cafes and pubs as an "all-day breakfast." The tradition of the full breakfast dates back to the 13th century and gained significant popularity during the Victorian era. Today, it is considered a national dish, standing alongside other British favorites like bangers and mash, shepherd's pie, and fish and chips.

The components of a full breakfast can vary by region. In England, your plate might include bacon, eggs, tomatoes, mushrooms, sausages, black pudding, baked beans, and toast. In Ireland, you often find bacon, sausages, white pudding, black pudding, and soda bread. Scotland contributes its own twist with Scottish black pudding, Lorne sausage, tattie scones, and haggis. Welsh traditions include items like Welsh cockles and laverbread.

This breakfast tradition has also migrated to North America, where it has been adapted with local twists. Typical ingredients include eggs, various meats, fried potatoes, and bread or toast. In the Southern US, grits are a popular addition. In Canada and the US, coffee is more commonly served with breakfast than tea. Regional specialties also appear, such as biscuits and gravy in the South, smoked salmon on the coasts, and breakfast burritos in the West.

In Hong Kong, you can find all-day breakfast or brunch options that blend English and North American breakfast items. The full breakfast is quite versatile, often accompanied by condiments like brown sauce or ketchup. Regardless of where you are, a full breakfast is sure to be a satisfying and filling way to start—or continue—your day.