The region of Andalucia in southern Spain is famous for its vibrant culture, astounding architecture, and flavor-packed cuisine. And when it comes to breakfast, the Andalusians have a reputation for creating hearty, filling, and delicious meals that will keep you fueled throughout the day. From classic and simple breakfast dishes to mouth-watering specialties, Andalusian breakfasts have something for everyone. So, if you're planning a trip to this beautiful region or simply looking to try something new, join us as we explore some of the most popular Spanish breakfast meals from Andalucia. Get ready to savor the flavors of this region and take your taste buds on a journey that you'll never forget.
1. Bread with Olive Oil (Pan con aceite)
This is the most traditional breakfast and mainly characterizes Andalusia. Olive oil, also known as liquid gold, is poured on toast and a pinch of salt is added. Coffee or orange juice accompany this first morning snack in a healthy and simple breakfast.
2. Bread, olive oil and Tomato (Pan con aceite y tomate)
This is another classic, toasted bread topped with grated tomatoes, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and sea salt. Some people also like to rub a garlic glove on their bread to give it that extra intense taste!
3. Bread, Olive Oil and Jamón Serrano (AKA Catalana)
Who doesn’t like Jamón Serrano?! (Unless you are vegetarian or vegan, then ofcourse we would completely understand you don’t like this type of breakfast). This toast is prepared like the one mentioned previously but with the added ingredient of a few slices of jamón serrano, it’s just delicious!! This toast is also known as a ‘Catalana’ .
Best Place to Eat Breakfast in Malaga #1
If you're looking for a truly 5 star breakfast experience fit for a Hollywood star, be sure to visit L'expérience on Plaza del Obispo Málaga. Voted as best place for Breakfasts in Málaga (2023) and is ranked as the 54th best restaurant out of over 2,000 in Málaga.
4. Pitufo
“Ponme un mitad y un pitufo!” (Give me a cafe au lait and a smurf) This might be one of the most repeated phrases in Málaga's cafés.
The Pitufo is a small-sized bread roll, smaller than a vienna roll, but larger than a pulga roll.
This bread roll has a soft and tender dough and a thin crust, and the most common pitufo is the ‘Pitufo Mixto’ which is stuffed with ham and cheese. DELICIOUS!
5. Molletes
The mollete is a kind of unleavened bread, white and undercooked, made in Antequera. It is known throughout Andalusia and is exquisite with any filling. In Málaga, some young entrepreneurs have even set up molleterías, establishments selling sandwiches made with this bread.
6. Churros con Chocolate
This breakfast is not as healthy as those above but is 100% traditional to Andalusia. It’s good to pamper yourself at least once a week. The churro is made with wheat flour dough cooked in oil and is known locally as “a fruit of the frying pan”. The Andalucians usually dip them in hot chocolate and its flavor is already famous in many cities the world like London, New York or Tokyo, which have imported them.
Best Place to Eat Breakfast in Malaga #2
If you're looking for somewhere a little more relaxed and informal to enjoy a typical Andalucian breakfast in Malaga, be sure to check out Mia Coffee Shop on Calle Vendeja, Malaga.
7. Bread and ‘Manteca Colorá’
If we go into deepest Andalusia, the typical "calorific" breakfast for physical work, such as in the fields, is toast with “Manteca Colorá” (“red lard”), which is lard with spices added such as paprika, bay leaves and oregano, among others. This peculiar flavor will surprise you. If you have high cholesterol, however, you may only try it once a week.
8. Málaga Coffees
Undoubtedly one of the curiosities of Málaga is the way they order coffee. There is a wide range based on the exact amount of coffee in each glass. We can find the “shadow”, “cloud”, “short”, “strong” or “half and half”, among other options. We recommend you visit the center of the capital of the Costa del Sol and try a cup. Enjoy it with some good toast to enjoy its full flavor.
9. Serranito
This variety of snack was created in Málaga and has spread throughout Andalusia. Its main ingredients are loin or chicken with green peppers and jamón serrano. It can also be served with grated tomato.
Conclusion
In conclusion, breakfast in Andalucia is far from boring. From the simplicity of toasted bread with olive oil and tomato puree to the more elaborate dishes like churros or meat-filled pastries, there's something for every taste bud. The region has been able to preserve its culinary heritage over time, and its breakfast options are no exception. Whether you're a visitor or a local, be sure to try out these delicious breakfast options and start your day in Andalucia the right way!