Ditch the Cereal and Power Up Your Morning: A Guide to the Ultimate Protein-Packed Breakfast Hash

Protein-Packed Breakfast Hash

1. Recipe Overview:

This Protein-Packed Breakfast Hash is a hearty and flavorful way to kickstart your day! It’s packed with protein, vegetables, and delicious spices, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal. This recipe is a unique twist on a classic breakfast, offering a balance of nutrients and taste. Although there is no origin, this is a fun and creative recipe perfect for busy weekdays or a leisurely weekend brunch.

• Flavor Profile: Savory, with a hint of spice.
• Texture: Tender vegetables, slightly crispy chorizo, and a soft, creamy egg.

2. Prep and Cook Times:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Skill Level: Beginner

3. Serving Information:

• Servings: 4
• Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of sliced avocado, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added freshness and flavour. You can also offer hot sauce for those who like more of a kick!

4. Ingredients List:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound chorizo sausage, removed from casings and crumbled
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 cups cooked sweet potatoes, cubed (can use pre-cooked or roast them)
• 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
• 8 large eggs
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional toppings: sliced avocado, sour cream or Greek yogurt, hot sauce

5. Equipment List:

• Essential:
  • Large nonstick skillet (at least 12 inches)
  • Mixing bowl for eggs
  • Whisk or fork
  • Spatula
• Optional:
  • Cutting board
  • Chef’s knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons

6. Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chorizo: Heat the olive oil in the large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the crumbled chorizo and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through. This is important for flavor and a good texture.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic to the skillet with the chorizo. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened but still have a slight bite – about 7-10 minutes. Remember, you want the vegetables slightly cooked through, not mushy.
3. Add Spices: Stir in the smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. This step helps to marry the flavours of the spices with the other ingredients.
4. Add Sweet Potatoes and Black Beans: Add the cooked sweet potatoes and black beans to the skillet. Stir to combine and heat through for 2-3 minutes. Ensure that the sweet potatoes are properly heated.
5. Crack in the Eggs: Make eight small wells in the hash mixture with the back of your spatula. Crack one egg into each well.
6. Cook the Eggs: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 4-6 minutes, or until the egg whites are set and the yolks reach your desired level of doneness (runny vs. firm). Careful not to overcook the eggs.
7. Serve & Garnish: Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with your favourite toppings, such as sliced avocado, sour cream, or hot sauce.

7. Technique Tips and Troubleshooting:

• Cooking the Chorizo: Brown the chorizo thoroughly for the best flavor
• Egg Cooking: For runny yolks, cook the eggs over medium-low heat, covered, for about 4 minutes. For firmer yolks, cook a bit longer.
• Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder to your preference. Start with less and add more if you desire.
• Vegetable Cook Time: The vegetables should be tender, but still hold their shape. Keeping an eye on the heat while cooking is helpful .

8. Plating and Presentation:

Serve the Protein-Packed Breakfast Hash directly from the skillet or transfer it to individual plates. Garnish generously with fresh cilantro. Offer the toppings separately for guests to add as they wish.

9. Storage and Reheating Instructions:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and the eggs are cooked to your liking. You can also microwave smaller portions for about 1-2 minutes, but be cautious of overcooking the eggs.

10. Variations and Customizations:

• Vegan: Replace the chorizo with plant-based chorizo or crumbled tofu. Omit the eggs entirely for a truly vegan dish.
• Vegetarian: Omit the chorizo and add an additional can of beans or substitute with crumbled tofu.
• Different Vegetables: Substitute different vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the hash for extra heat.
• Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, over the hash during the last few minutes of cooking.

11. Notes on Ingredients and Equipment:

• Chorizo: Find high-quality chorizo, preferably fresh or not overly processed.
• Spices: Fresh spices are typically best.
• Eggs: Fresh eggs are ideal but any type will work.
• Equipment: A good nonstick skillet is essential for easy cooking and cleanup. If you have one, a cast-iron skillet will also work very well.

12. Final Touches and Personal Notes:

This Protein-Packed Breakfast Hash is one of my favorite ways to start the day, and especially after a fun-filled weekend. I enjoy varying the vegetables depending on what’s in season, and I hope you will too! Feel free to experiment with spices and toppings to make it your own. Happy cooking!

FAQ Questions and Answers:

1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
   Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, like peppers and onions. Be sure to thaw them thoroughly and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the skillet. Cooking time might be slightly longer.
2. How can I make my sweet potatoes in advance?
   Roast the sweet potatoes until tender, about 45 minutes, then cube them and store them in the refrigerator until ready to use.
3. What if I don’t like chorizo?
   You can substitute the chorizo with ground turkey, chicken, or sausage. Adjust seasoning accordingly.
4. Can I use a different type of bean?
   Yes, other beans like pinto beans, kidney beans, or cannellini beans will work well.
5. How do I know when the eggs are cooked?
   The whites should be set, and the yolk should be cooked to your desired consistency. Gently poke the yolk to test for firmness. The whites will be opaque, and not transparent.

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