When considering the best breakfast foods, I often think of pancakes with chocolate chips and peanut butter; waffles with blueberries and powdered sugar; and French toast topped with maple syrup and strawberries. As delicious as these ways to start off the day are, they’re also primarily sugar. In fact, in many parts of the world, these American breakfast classics are viewed as desserts. However, when it comes to less sugar-y breakfast options, many include eggs or full of dairy and meat, leaving few options for those who want a savory breakfast without animal products. Still, as these dietary choices become more normalized, vegetarian and vegan breakfast recipes and alternatives are becoming more readily available. This is seen in both the increase in commercial meat-free options, as well as the surge in plant-based recipes both in print and online. If you’re looking for a chance to eat something new, try one of these 10 savory breakfast recipes that don’t include eggs.
Southwest Tofu Scramble
Crumbled tofu is one of the easiest and most delicious substitutes for eggs. This savory option is full of both nutrients (from kale and peppers) as well as flavor. You can easily adapt the recipe by adding in whatever vegetables you have on hand.
Chickpea Scramble
If you’re sick of tofu or just want to try something different, this chickpea scramble is another great egg-free breakfast. Chickpeas are also relatively inexpensive, making this option incredibly cost effective.
Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites
These dairy-free “cheese” bites are the perfect on the go breakfast. Whip them up in a muffin tin as you might egg cups and grab one (or a few) to eat on your way to school.
Tofu Benedict
On a day when you have a little more time, try this vegan take on a brunch classic. Use avocado and homemade vegan hollandaise sauce as motivation to get out of bed.
Freezer-Friendly Breakfast Burrito
Breakfast burritos are one of the easiest savory breakfasts. Make these vegan ones filled with tofu, kale, and potatoes and just stick them in the freezer for an quick breakfast.
Savory Crepes
As great as sweet fillings like jam, berries, and chocolate are, sometimes savory crepes are the way to go. Fill these super simple ones with avocado, vegan cheese, or roasted vegetables and you’re good to go.
Spicy Vegan Breakfast Sausage
These tempeh breakfast patties require a little more planning than some of the recipes on this list, but they’re a great thing to make and keep in the freezer. Just warm one up and you’ve got the making of the ultimate breakfast sandwich.
Savory Chickpea Pancake
While pancakes are traditionally filled with vanilla and topped with sweet sauces, these giant savory ones are full of flavor and protein. Instead of syrup, try topping these with avocado, salsa, and tahini sauce.
Chickpea Tofu Quiche
This “quiche” may not be filled with the classic ham and cheese, but it’s a great homemade brunch option for those who don’t eat eggs and want something a little more involved.
Sweet Potato Black Bean Hash
Sweet potatoes are definitely one of my favorite foods (in fact, I wrote a whole Spoon article about them). Mixed with black beans, onions, and spices, this sweet potato hash is an easy breakfast to make in large batches and keep in the fridge for mornings when you have a little less time.
It’s definitely easier to buy a breakfast sandwich or muffin on the way to class, but these don’t compare to a homemade breakfast. Make the morning extra special by sitting down to one of these easy vegan meals or grabbing your prepped meal to go. This list is in no way exhaustive and there are easier vegan breakfasts like avocado toast and bagels with hummus, but hopefully this is a helpful start. These recipes can give you the meal you deserve before class (or after a long week of classes).