Classic Breakfast Platter

A Classic Breakfast Platter is a wholesome and hearty meal that typically includes eggs, bacon, sausage, toast, and hash browns. This traditional breakfast is perfect for starting your day with a delicious and balanced meal, providing a variety of flavors and textures. Whether enjoyed at home or at a diner, this platter is a comforting and satisfying option.

Ingredients

For the Eggs:

• 4 large eggs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter or oil

For the Bacon:

• 8 slices of bacon

For the Sausages:

• 4 breakfast sausages

For the Toast:

• 4 slices of bread (your choice of white, whole wheat, or sourdough)
• Butter for spreading

For the Hash Browns:

• 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
• 1/2 small onion, grated
• 1 tablespoon butter or oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Extras:

• Fresh fruit (such as orange slices or berries)
• Freshly squeezed orange juice
• Coffee or tea

Steps

Prepare the Eggs:

1. Scrambled Eggs: Whisk the eggs in a bowl with a pinch of salt and pepper. Melt the butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the eggs and cook, stirring gently until they are just set.
2. Fried Eggs: Heat the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Crack the eggs into the skillet and cook until the whites are set and the yolks reach your desired doneness. Season with salt and pepper.

Cook the Bacon:

1. Pan-Fry: Place the bacon slices in a cold skillet. Turn the heat to medium and cook the bacon, flipping occasionally, until crispy. Drain on paper towels.

Cook the Sausages:

1. Pan-Fry: In the same skillet, add the sausages and cook over medium heat, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through.

Prepare the Toast:

1. Toast the Bread: Toast the slices of bread in a toaster or on a grill. Spread with butter while still warm.

Make the Hash Browns:

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Grate the potatoes and onion. Squeeze out any excess moisture using a kitchen towel.
2. Cook the Hash Browns: Heat the butter or oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the grated potatoes and onion, pressing them into an even layer. Cook until golden brown on one side, then flip and cook until crispy on the other side. Season with salt and pepper.

Assemble the Platter:

1. Arrange the Components: On a large plate, arrange the scrambled or fried eggs, crispy bacon, sausages, and toast. Add a portion of hash browns.
2. Optional Extras: Garnish with fresh fruit and serve with a glass of orange juice and a hot cup of coffee or tea.

Tips

• Egg Variations: Try poached or omelet-style eggs for variety.
• Healthier Options: Use turkey bacon and chicken sausage for a lighter version.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace bacon and sausage with grilled vegetables or plant-based alternatives.

Variations

• Pancake Platter: Swap out the toast for pancakes or waffles, and add maple syrup.
• Southwestern Platter: Add avocado slices, salsa, and black beans for a Tex-Mex twist.

A Classic Breakfast Platter is a delightful way to start the day, offering a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and flavors. With a variety of components, it caters to different tastes and preferences, making it a versatile and beloved meal. Enjoy the comfort and satisfaction of a homemade breakfast platter with your favorite morning beverages and extras!