The coronavirus pandemic has left us unmoored in so many ways. Exhibit A: Often I have no idea what day it is. After the first week or so of staying home, I stopped counting or even caring that much. The days and hours blend together in one endless continuum of work, cooking, child care and, ideally, sleeping. Time has no meaning! Time is a construct!
We might as well embrace this topsy-turvy way of life in one of the more enjoyable reversals I know: Breakfast for dinner. Or brinner, as we often refer to it in our house. Not only is it fun, but it’s also a good strategy to let you make a bunch of dishes you may not typically be awake enough to conquer in the morning. Plus, kids love it. Here are some dishes from our archives to consider.
Sheet Pan Frittata, above. Eggs are welcome on my table no matter the meal. This adaptable recipe feeds a crowd and keeps well for subsequent meals. Really seal the deal by making an accompanying batch of biscuits for some outstanding sandwiches.
Cornmeal Waffles With Cheddar, Chipotle and Scallions. Waffles are even more acceptable as dinner when made savory. These spicy, smoky ones have a great texture, too, thanks to the cornmeal.
Black Bean Breakfast Burritos. Truth be told, I eat these almost exclusively for dinner anyway. They store very well in the freezer, so they’re perfect for nights when breakfast for dinner is a last-minute impulse.
Chili Corn Pancakes. Just like waffles, pancakes are ripe for savory additions. The pantry-friendly ingredients here include canned black beans, frozen corn, polenta (or cornmeal) and smoked paprika. Want a more traditional buttermilk pancake? I’ve got that, too.
Steel-Cut Oats With Kimchi. Oatmeal: It’s not just sweet, and it’s not just for mornings. This savory oatmeal is made in an Instant Pot, and includes several suggested toppings that can be made ahead.
Spicy Red Shakshuka. Whether you’re flush with eggs or a few short, you’ll find one big reason to make this dish: The sauce. Canned tomatoes and a couple of spices come together for something begging to be dipped into with hunks of good bread.
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