Westerly Sun Column | Any Cookbook Can Be an Inspiration for Your Savory Breakfast Journey

It has recently come to my attention that the savory breakfasts I so love and adore have been maligned by my beloved, yet clearly misguided co-worker. Yes, we have had many debates regarding food. I will confess that I was able to come around to lightly toasted bread at times. I keep trying to convince myself that there is nothing wrong with pancakes with maple syrup or a muffin to get you started in the morning. But, alas, I’m not there yet; sweet food is meant for dessert!

Let me also address the lack of publications regarding savory breakfasts. Clearly, there is a void in the publishing industry. But really any cookbook can be an inspiration for your savory breakfast journey. “Ripe Figs” by Yasmin Khan has a lovely but simple recipe for olive bread that uses onions and kalamata olives. Pair that with some hummus and a drizzle of olive oil and you’ve got yourself a fabulous breakfast!

Why do some insist that breakfast needs to be sweet? It is what we have been culturally taught and as a result have lived most of our lives doing. I say open your mind and branch out! If you’re looking for some new ideas, there is a gorgeous recipe in “Garlic, Olive Oil and Everything Mediterranean” by Daen Lia. Olive confit with whipped ricotta and cream cheese. Hello? Would that not be the most delicious and satisfying breakfast? Plus, you can always toss an egg on it for more protein. Certainly not for me, but the egg debate is for another day.

Check out “Falastin” which received starred reviews from both Booklist and Publishers Weekly. A perfect breakfast can consist of rice with yogurt, roasted cauliflower, and fried garlic. Did anyone say it was specifically breakfast? No. But for me, it’s a chef’s kiss with a lovely cup of coffee.

Why are we allowing ourselves to be ruled by societal breakfast norms? Why is lentil bolognese or chana masala not acceptable for breakfast? Maybe you like sweet things with your coffee or tea in the morning and that’s ok ... I suppose. Defend your breakfast choices. Is there a right or wrong? Perhaps not, but I will take further convincing to have a cinnamon bun for breakfast. Whether you're a sweet or savory person, the library has plenty of cookbooks to inspire you. Stop by the library and join the debate!

by Caroline Badowski, Head of Adult Services