Everyone knows that breakfast is one of the most important meals of the day. Much like filling up the tank in your car, what you eat fuels your mind and body. For residents in southern states like Tennessee, the first meal of the day starts with something warm, rich, and comforting that keeps the body going for hours. Here’s a look at some of those classic mouthwatering Tennessee breakfast items listed below.
Chicken And Waffles
If sweet and savory are your idea of the perfect palette combination, then you have to try chicken and waffles for breakfast. There’s nothing like a warm fluffy Belgian waffle paired with some well-seasoned fried chicken to fill you up in the morning. The best part is, there’s no shortage of ways to prepare this classic meal. Instead, you can use a traditional waffle mix or opt for something like red velvet, blueberry, or whole-grain mix. Switching up your syrup and toppings is another way to diversify your breakfast.
Grits
Whether you’re a Tennessee resident or visiting on vacation, grits have to be on your list of foods to try for breakfast. It’s a southern dish made from crushed or ground corn that tastes great by itself or with a few essential ingredients. It’s warm, filling, and packed with nutrients and vitamins like iron, vitamin B, fiber, zinc, folate, and more. In Tennessee, grits are a popular breakfast dish with salt, pepper, cheese, and topped with shrimp. Of course, you can get creative and add other favorites like bacon or scrambled eggs to the mix.
Old-Fashioned Oatmeal
Another classic Tennessee breakfast idea is a good old-fashioned bowl of oatmeal. Recipes have come a long way over the years enabling you to add various ingredients and toppings to suit your tastes. All you need are some rolled oats, water (or milk), butter, and some fruit or granola, and you’ve got a delicious breakfast in a matter of minutes. You can include everything from apples, cinnamon, and brown sugar to blueberries and bananas for additional flavor and nutrition.
Country Fried Chicken And Biscuits
If you’re interested in a hearty breakfast that packs tons of flavor, try preparing (or ordering) country-fried chicken and biscuits. Fried chicken breasts seasoned with traditional Tennessee spices with warm buttermilk biscuits are the perfect breakfast sandwich on the go. If you have time to sit and eat, you can always smother some white gravy on top and pair the meal with fried or scrambled eggs.
Omelets
Tennessee is the perfect place to grab an omelet for breakfast if you’re a fan of eggs. Known for its southern cuisine and spicy flavors, this state has various omelets you’re sure to enjoy. For instance, a Poor Boy’s omelet is made with Italian sausage, onions, red bell peppers, cheese, and chopped spinach. The Loveless Cafe in Nashville is famous for its pulled pork barbecue omelets which include pulled pork, cheese, onions and is topped with delicious barbecue sauce.
Tennessee Country Ham Breakfast
If you’re in Tennessee, you’ve likely heard about a classic ham breakfast. As country ham is a staple in the south, you’ll find that this delectable dish is available at just about every breakfast spot in town. A nice healthy slice of ham cooked to perfection is paired with eggs, savory grits, biscuits, and either syrup or gravy depending on your tastebuds. Enjoy this spread with a cup of fresh black coffee or orange juice, and you’re ready to take on the world.
Whether you’re tired of eating the same thing every morning or you’re a tourist in the great state of Tennesee, there’s no shortage of breakfast ideas to satisfy your cravings. A bowl of grits or old-fashioned oatmeal is a quick fix for those mornings where time is limited, while chicken and waffles or a classic Tennesee country ham breakfast are perfect weekend options. If you’re interested in trying any of these morning treats, head to one of Tennessee’s many restaurants, diners, and cafes, or get creative in your kitchen for mouthwatering meals you won’t soon forget.