Hearty breakfast

Hearty Breakfast with Polenta, Bacon, and Fried Eggs

A hearty breakfast is more than just a meal; it’s a promise of a day full of energy and good vibes. This delicious recipe with polenta, crispy bacon, and fried eggs will not only satisfy your hunger but will turn your morning into a savoring ritual. So let’s get to work and discover how we can create this tasty breakfast!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients

- 300 g cooked polenta (ideally made the day before)
- 200 g bacon (high quality)
- 2 fresh eggs (one for each person)
- 100 g sheep cheese (grated, for an intense flavor)
- Sunflower or olive oil (for frying)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2-3 garlic cloves (for the sauce)
- 150 g sour cream (for the sauce)
- 2 tablespoons yogurt (for the sauce)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preparing the Polenta
If you have prepared the polenta the day before, take it out of the fridge and let it reach room temperature. If you prefer to use freshly made polenta, ensure you prepare it a few hours in advance so that it firms up. To achieve the perfect texture, use hot water and stir constantly to avoid lumps.

2. Cutting and Shaping the Polenta
Once the polenta has cooled, cut it into desired shapes. You can choose cubes, triangles, or even circles using a glass. This can be a great opportunity to play with shapes, making the breakfast not only tasty but also visually appealing.

3. Frying the Bacon
In a skillet, add a little oil and let it heat up. Add the bacon slices and fry them until crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to absorb excess fat.

4. Frying the Eggs
In the same skillet, use the remaining fat to fry the eggs. You can opt for fried eggs or an omelet, depending on your preference. Let them cook for 2-3 minutes on each side for a runny yolk, or longer if you prefer well-done eggs. Add salt and pepper to taste.

5. Preparing the Sauce
To add extra flavor, you can prepare a simple sauce. In a small bowl, mix the crushed garlic cloves, sour cream, yogurt, salt, and pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings to your liking.

6. Assembling the Plate
On a plate, arrange each component: a layer of polenta, crispy bacon slices, fried eggs, and finally, generously sprinkle the grated sheep cheese on top. For a fresh look, add the garlic sauce on top and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

7. Serving
Serve the breakfast warm, alongside a fresh vegetable salad or even with a slice of toasted bread. This hearty breakfast will surely be appreciated by the whole family!

Practical Tips

- Choose quality ingredients: Use bacon from a trusted butcher that contains no unhealthy additives or preservatives. Polenta made from quality cornmeal will provide a better taste.
- For a healthier option: You can replace bacon with turkey ham or sautéed vegetables.
- Experiment with sauces: Instead of garlic sauce, you can try a spicy tomato sauce or even a feta cheese sauce for a salty note.

Nutritional Benefits

This breakfast is rich in protein thanks to the eggs and bacon, while the polenta provides complex carbohydrates that will keep you energized throughout the morning. Sheep cheese is an excellent source of calcium, and the garlic in the sauce is known for its antimicrobial properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use fresh polenta?
Yes, but make sure it is well cooled to achieve clear shapes.

- What type of cheese can I use?
In addition to sheep cheese, you can opt for telemea cheese or mozzarella, depending on what you have on hand.

- How can I store leftovers?
If you have leftover food, store it in airtight containers in the fridge, and the polenta can be reheated in the oven or on the stove.

Possible Variations

This recipe can be adapted in countless ways. You can add sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to create a vegetarian breakfast. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or sauces to enhance the flavor.

Personal Note

This recipe reminds me of the mornings spent with family, when we would all gather around the table to enjoy a hearty breakfast. Every meal becomes an opportunity to create memories, and this breakfast is perfect for starting the day with smiles and good cheer.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get cooking! Enjoy your meal!