I’ve always had a thing for breakfast. As a kid, I remember the mornings when I’d get up early, still in my pajamas, and watch my mom whip up something simple like scrambled eggs or pancakes. But every once in a while, she’d surprise me with waffles, and it felt like a treat-warm, golden, and piled high with fresh fruit and syrup. The waffles were a symbol of something extra, a morning that was special.
That’s why when I came across Jamie Oliver’s Breakfast Waffle recipe, I knew it was a game-changer. It’s not just about waffles; it’s about making breakfast exciting and indulgent without feeling like a total cheat day. And if you’re someone who loves a hearty, filling meal to kickstart the day, this recipe hits the spot.
Jamie Oliver’s Breakfast Waffle Recipe
Jamie’s take on waffles is far from basic. He combines crispy waffles with a combination of savory ingredients that turn an otherwise simple dish into a full-blown breakfast feast. Imagine a golden waffle topped with crispy bacon, poached eggs, and a hint of maple syrup. It’s a beautiful mashup of textures and flavors that satisfies both sweet and savory cravings.
What’s great about this recipe is that it’s easy to follow, and you don’t need any fancy equipment. Just a waffle iron and a few key ingredients, and you’re good to go. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve made it for weekend brunches, impressing friends who didn’t think I could pull off something this delicious.
Ingredients Needed
To make Jamie Oliver’s Breakfast Waffle, you’ll need:
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For The Waffles
- 200g self-raising flour
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- 2 large eggs
- 200ml milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 50g melted butter
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For The Toppings
- 4 slices of bacon
- 2 eggs (poached or fried, depending on your preference)
- Maple syrup
- Fresh herbs (optional)
Each ingredient plays a role, from the fluffy texture of the waffle to the crispy bacon and the rich sweetness of syrup. It’s a balance of flavors, and what I love about it is that you can tweak the toppings to your preference.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Breakfast Waffle
Making Jamie’s Breakfast Waffle is simple, but it’s the combination of elements that makes it so satisfying.
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Prepare The Waffle Batter
- Start by whisking together the self-raising flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Gradually fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until smooth. Add the melted butter and mix again.
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Cook The Waffles
- Preheat your waffle iron. Once it’s ready, pour the batter onto the iron, just enough to cover the base. Close the lid and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until golden and crispy. If you don’t have a waffle iron, you can also use a griddle pan to make pancakes, but waffles are the ideal texture here.
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Cook The Bacon
- While the waffles are cooking, fry the bacon in a pan over medium heat. Once it’s nice and crispy, set it aside.
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Prepare The Eggs
- You can either poach or fry your eggs, depending on how you like them. I usually poach mine for a creamy, rich texture, but a fried egg with a runny yolk works perfectly too.
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Assemble The Waffle
- Once everything is cooked, place your waffles on a plate. Top each with crispy bacon, a poached egg, a drizzle of maple syrup, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you like.
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Enjoy
- Dig in and enjoy the ultimate breakfast treat. Each bite is a combination of savory, sweet, and rich flavors.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Let’s dive into the science behind a few key ingredients in this breakfast masterpiece.
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Self-Raising Flour
The secret to a fluffy, airy waffle is in the flour. Self-raising flour contains a leavening agent, usually baking powder, which helps the waffle rise and become light. It gives you that perfect crispy outside and soft inside. The protein content is also slightly lower than regular flour, which contributes to the tender crumb.
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Eggs
Eggs are crucial in both the batter and the toppings. In the waffle, they help bind everything together and create structure. When poached or fried, the eggs provide a rich, creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the crispness of the waffle and bacon.
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Bacon
The key to great bacon is the fat content. As the bacon cooks, the fat renders out, creating that irresistible crispy texture. The saltiness of the bacon pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the syrup and the fluffiness of the waffle.
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Maple Syrup
Maple syrup’s distinct sweetness comes from the sap of sugar maple trees. It’s not just sugar; it contains antioxidants and minerals like manganese and zinc. It’s the perfect balance to cut through the richness of the eggs and bacon.
Expert Tips
If you want to make this recipe even better, here are some expert tips I’ve picked up over the years:
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Preheat The Waffle Iron
This is key. A hot waffle iron will give you that crispy outer layer while keeping the inside soft. If the iron is too cool, your waffles will end up soggy.
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients
Take your eggs and milk out of the fridge before starting. Room temperature ingredients mix together more smoothly and create a better batter texture.
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Don’t Overmix The Batter
Overmixing can make your waffles dense and tough. Gently stir until everything is just combined; lumps are okay!
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Customize Toppings
While the bacon and eggs are the perfect combo, you can add sautéed mushrooms, avocado, or even grilled tomatoes for a fresh twist.
Recipe Variations
One of the things I love about Jamie Oliver’s Breakfast Waffle recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. Here are a few variations to try:
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Vegan Version
Replace the eggs and butter with plant-based alternatives. Almond milk or oat milk works great in place of regular milk, and vegan butter will keep the richness intact. Top with avocado instead of eggs for a creamy texture.
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Sweet Waffles
Skip the bacon and eggs and add fresh fruit like berries, bananas, or peaches. A drizzle of honey or whipped cream can make it even more indulgent.
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Cheese And Herb Waffles
Add some grated cheese (cheddar or parmesan) and fresh herbs like chives to the waffle batter for a savory twist.
Final Words
This isn’t just a waffle recipe; it’s an experience. Every element works together in harmony to create a breakfast that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether you’re cooking it for yourself on a lazy Saturday morning or serving it at a brunch gathering, this waffle recipe never fails to impress.
FAQs
What Makes Jamie Oliver’s Breakfast Waffle Recipe Different From Regular Waffles?
Jamie Oliver’s recipe adds ingredients like crispy bacon and fresh fruit to create a savory and sweet balance that’s perfect for breakfast.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Breakfast Waffles Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can make the waffles in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat them in a toaster or oven for a quick breakfast.
What Toppings Can I Use For Jamie Oliver’s Breakfast Waffles?
You can top them with maple syrup, yogurt, fresh berries, scrambled eggs, or avocado for a deliciously customizable breakfast.