10 Best Breakfast Recipes From Around the World

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Pastel de Nata (Portugal)

Start your morning the Portuguese way with Pastel de Nata, a classic breakfast treat known for its golden, flaky crust and silky smooth custard filling. These bite-sized tarts are the perfect balance of rich and light, with a hint of caramelization on top. Traditionally served with a dusting of powdered sugar or cinnamon, they’re a delightful way to elevate your breakfast and pair perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea.

Ingredients (for 12 servings):

• 1 package puff pastry (thawed)
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2/3 cup water
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 strip lemon peel (about 2-3 inches)
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar and cinnamon for sprinkling (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 500°F. Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into 12 pieces. Press each piece into a muffin tin, shaping it to cover the sides of the tin. Refrigerate the pastry while you make the custard.
2. In a small saucepan, whisk together the flour and 1/4 cup of the milk until smooth. Add the rest of the milk, sugar, water, cinnamon stick, and lemon peel. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5 min. Remove from heat and discard the cinnamon stick and lemon peel.
3. In a separate bowl, lightly whisk the egg yolks and vanilla. Slowly whisk a few tablespoons of the hot milk mixture into the yolks to temper them, then pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
4. Pour the custard into the pastry shells, filling each about three-quarters full. Bake for 10-12 min. or until the tops are caramelized with golden-brown spots and the pastry is crisp.
5. Let the tarts cool for a few minutes before removing them from the tin. Sprinkle with powdered sugar or cinnamon if desired, and serve warm or at room temperature.