The opening ceremony for that rather large sporting event in Brazil is conveniently timed for a lazy breakfast in bed. True, it's an earlier start than most of us make on a typical weekend - Rio is 13 hours behind Australian Eastern Standard Time, so live coverage will be kicking off here from 6am AEST on Saturday.
But with four hours of marching athletes, music, fireworks (surely there will be fireworks?) and generally dazzling displays to settle in and enjoy, that means plenty of time for a good breakfast (or snacks, if you're catching up later in the day).
Here are the eats that will get you through.
1. Banana streusel cake (cuca de banana)
Think of this as Brazil's banana bread. It's moreishly moist, with a coconut-crumb topping.
2. Brazilian doughnuts (churros with doce de leite)
We couldn't put together a list of things to eat while watching action from Rio without including churros. Sure, it might not be what you think of at 6am - but four-hour ceremony, remember? This one's for fans of "second breakfast".
3. Farmer's breakfast
Four hours is a long time. This hearty farmer's brekkie will help you stay the course. It's an easy, one-pan marvel made with potatoes, bacon and eggs.
4. Brazilian cheese breads (pao de queijo)
Ubiquitous throughout Brazil, these traditionally served for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or eaten as an accompaniment to any main meal - so you can put these on the menu for pretty much any planned sports viewing.
5. Blueberry pancakes with bacon
Yep, it's one of those dishes that carves opinions in two like a hot knife through butter. You either like the idea maple syrup with bacon or you don't. This is for those that do.
6. Bubble and squeak cakes
Luke Nguyen suggests two ways to chow down on these crispy critters: “These crisp vegetarian cakes would make a great accompaniment to your bacon and eggs in the morning. Alternatively, break them in half and toss through a green papaya salad with fresh Asian herbs.”
7. Mushrooms on toast
Simple but delicious. In fact, “the best mushrooms on toast you will ever have!", says Poh Ling Yeow. "Meaty and aromatic with all the wonderful stuff that make mushrooms shine – butter, garlic, thyme and parsley. Yep, we're sold - and speedy to make too.
8. Beans with fried bacon and scrambled eggs (feijão tropeiro)
Soak beans overnight then quickly whip up this hearty Brazilian meal in a pan.
9. Green 'n' gold popcorn
There's so much action to come: get ready to cheer on the Aussies with this patriotic popcorn.
SBS Food is a 24/7 foodie channel for all Australians, with a focus on simple, authentic and everyday food inspiration from cultures everywhere. NSW stream only. Read more about SBS Food
Have a story or comment? Contact Us
