Helen's Effortless Breakfast Delight

The Perfect Breakfast Alternative

While a traditional full English breakfast is a beloved classic, it can sometimes be too labor-intensive for a busy morning. Helen's Effortless Breakfast Delight offers a tasty and convenient alternative that requires minimal preparation and cleanup. This recipe serves one, but we recommend making two per serving for a more satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1 slice of quality ham (smoked or honey roast works best)
• 1 large egg
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Butter for greasing

Equipment

• Le Creuset Silicone 6 Cup Muffin Pan, Volcanic

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Muffin Pan: Lightly grease the muffin pan with butter.
3. Assemble the Ingredients:
   • Place a slice of ham into each muffin cup, ensuring it lines the sides and bottom.
   • Crack an egg into each ham-lined cup.
   • Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
   • Fold any overhanging ham over the top of the egg. It’s okay if it doesn’t cover completely.
   • Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
4. Bake: Place the muffin pan in the oven and bake for at least 15 minutes. Check to ensure the egg is firm before removing.
5. Serve: Enjoy with granary toast and a hot cup of tea or coffee.

Breakfast Statistics and Insights

The Importance of Breakfast

Breakfast is often touted as the most important meal of the day. According to a study by the National Weight Control Registry, 78% of successful dieters eat breakfast daily, highlighting its role in maintaining a healthy weight (source).

Breakfast Trends

• Popularity of Eggs: Eggs are a breakfast staple worldwide. In the United States alone, the average person consumes about 279 eggs per year (source).
• Rise of Quick Breakfasts: With busy lifestyles, quick and easy breakfast options are becoming increasingly popular. A survey by the International Food Information Council found that 56% of Americans prefer breakfast foods that are easy to prepare (source).

Nutritional Benefits

• Protein Power: This recipe provides a good source of protein from both the ham and the egg, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Low Carb: For those watching their carbohydrate intake, this dish is a great low-carb option.

Tips for a Perfect Breakfast

• Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality ham and fresh eggs can make a significant difference in taste.
• Experiment with Cheese: While Parmesan is recommended, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Add Veggies: For added nutrition, consider adding some chopped spinach or bell peppers to the muffin cups before adding the egg.

Conclusion

Helen's Effortless Breakfast Delight is a simple, delicious, and nutritious way to start your day. With minimal preparation and cleanup, it’s perfect for busy mornings or when you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy this delightful breakfast with a side of toast and your favorite hot beverage for a complete meal.

By following this easy recipe, you can enjoy a tasty breakfast that’s both satisfying and quick to prepare. For more breakfast ideas and tips, check out BBC Good Food and AllRecipes.