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The worst brunch foods to order, according to chefs
Brunch has become a popular mealtime choice for many people. It’s a perfect way to start a lazy weekend day, enjoying a combination of breakfast and lunch dishes. But not all brunch foods are created equal. According to chefs, there are certain items you should avoid ordering if you want to have a satisfying and enjoyable brunch experience. In this article, we will explore the worst brunch foods to order, as recommended by chefs.
Foods You Can Make At Home
One of the first things that chefs advise against ordering for brunch are dishes that you can easily make at home. Items like scrambled eggs, toast, and oatmeal fall into this category. While they may seem like easy and convenient choices, ordering them at a restaurant can be a waste of money. Chefs point out that you can make these items at home for a fraction of the cost. Plus, some restaurants may not put the same effort and attention to detail into preparing these basic dishes.
Corned beef hash
Corned beef hash is a popular brunch item, but chefs caution against ordering it. The dish often contains leftovers from previous meals, such as chopped ribs, baked potatoes, or fajita vegetables. While some may enjoy the hodgepodge nature of corned beef hash, others find it unappealing and unpredictable. Chefs recommend opting for other brunch options that offer more consistency and flavor.
Scrambled Eggs
Scrambled eggs may seem like an easy and foolproof choice for brunch, but many restaurants fail to deliver a satisfying version of this classic dish. Chefs explain that making good scrambled eggs requires attention to detail and personal preference. But during the busy brunch rush, cooks may not have the time or focus to make them properly. As a result, scrambled eggs can be overcooked, tasteless, or underseasoned. When you’re craving scrambled eggs, it’s best to make them at home to ensure a fluffy and flavorful result.
Eggs Benedict
Eggs Benedict, a dish of poached eggs, Canadian bacon, and hollandaise sauce on an English muffin, is a brunch staple. But chefs advise against ordering it for one reason: the hollandaise sauce. Hollandaise sauce, a key ingredient in Eggs Benedict, requires careful temperature control to prevent the growth of bacteria. Chefs often prepare the sauce in advance and keep it warm, which may not meet recommended safety standards. To avoid potential health risks, it’s best to steer clear of Eggs Benedict and opt for other brunch options.
Canadian Bacon
Canadian bacon, often used in Eggs Benedict, is another brunch food that chefs caution against ordering. Because brunch is typically served only once a week, there’s a higher chance that Canadian bacon has been sitting in the refrigerator for a long time. While Canadian bacon can be safe to eat if stored properly, there is a risk that it may not be as fresh or heated sufficiently before being served. To ensure the best quality and taste, it’s wise to choose alternative brunch items that do not include Canadian bacon.
Boring menu items you can get anywhere
When you go out for brunch, it’s understandable that you might crave some classic breakfast staples like sausage, eggs, and grits. However, chefs suggest that you avoid ordering these common menu items at brunch establishments. The reason behind this advice is that brunch prices are often inflated, and restaurants tend to mark up the cost of these cheap ingredients significantly. If you’re looking for a traditional breakfast experience, it’s best to visit a breakfast place where the prices are more reasonable and the food is still delicious.
Omelets and other dishes with extra ingredients
Finally, chefs reveal that brunch menus can sometimes be a dumping ground for leftovers from the previous week. Omelets and other dishes with extra ingredients are often created to use these leftovers in a creative and cost-effective way. While this can make for interesting and tasty brunch options, it can also lead to unpredictable flavor combinations and less consistent quality. For a more reliable and balanced brunch experience, it’s best to choose dishes that are designed and prepared specifically for brunch.
In conclusion, while brunch can be a delightful and indulgent meal, it’s important to be mindful of the foods you order. Chefs recommend avoiding certain items such as scrambled eggs, corned beef hash, eggs Benedict, Canadian bacon, boring menu items, and dishes with extra ingredients. By making informed choices, you can ensure a more satisfying and enjoyable brunch experience. So the next time you’re planning a brunch outing, keep these chef-approved tips in mind and choose wisely.
FAQS
Why should I avoid ordering food for brunch that I can make at home?
Ordering dishes like scrambled eggs, toast, and oatmeal at a restaurant can be a waste of money when they are easy and inexpensive to make at home.
What’s wrong with corned beef hash as a brunch choice?
Corned beef hash often contains leftovers and unpredictable ingredients, making it a less recommended option compared to other more consistent brunch dishes.
Why are scrambled eggs often disappointing at brunch spots?
Busy brunch rushes can lead to undercooked and tasteless scrambled eggs, as cooks may not have the time or focus to prepare them properly.
What’s wrong with Eggs Benedict?
The hollandaise sauce used in Eggs Benedict requires careful temperature control, which can’t always be achieved if it’s made ahead and kept warm.
Why should I be wary of ordering Canadian bacon for brunch?
Canadian bacon may not be as fresh or adequately heated if it has been sitting in the refrigerator for an extended period of time, increasing the risk of compromised quality.
Why should I avoid ordering standard menu items such as sausage, eggs and grits at brunch?
Brunch prices are often inflated, and restaurants tend to mark up the cost of these basic ingredients significantly, making them less cost-effective options compared to dedicated breakfast venues.