If you run a homeless shelter, apart from the fact that you are required to provide a roof over the heads of people who are homeless, you are also expected to feed them.
Interestingly, breakfast is one of the important meals that are encouraged in homeless shelters. The reason why breakfast is important in a homeless shelter is not far-fetched.
Eating breakfast provides essential nutrients and energy that kick-start metabolism, enhancing cognitive function and concentration for people in a homeless shelter.
It stabilizes blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of overeating later in the day. Regular breakfast consumption supports overall health, aiding in weight management, and may contribute to improved mood and physical performance.
Establishing a morning eating routine is linked to better nutrient intake and a healthier lifestyle. In this article, we will look at some of the best breakfast ideas for a homeless shelter that you should consider.
Best Breakfast ideas for Homeless Shelter
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Oatmeal Bowls
Oatmeal bowls are the perfect breakfast if you just want a breakfast that will not take a lot of your time to prepare. Oatmeal bowl basically consists of whole rolled oats soaked in almond milk overnight with a dash of maple syrup.
All you need to do to prepare an oatmeal bowl is to bring water or milk to a boil in a medium saucepan. Stir in oats, and reduce heat to low.
Simmer uncovered over low heat, stirring occasionally, for 25-30 minutes or until oats are of the desired texture. You can serve oatmeal with toppings like fresh fruit, nuts, and a drizzle of honey.
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Yogurt Parfaits
Yogurt Parfait Recipe is a simple breakfast or snack that starts with a thick and creamy yogurt layered with homemade granola and fresh berries then topped with more fresh berries and a honey drizzle.
Yogurt Parfait is rich in protein and low in cholesterol and they are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, D, and B-12. Yogurt parfaits also contain iron, calcium, and magnesium.
Some studies suggest that calcium in yogurt may be better absorbed by your body than calcium from other sources. Interestingly, it takes only a few seconds for you to prepare a delicious yogurt parfait breakfast.
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Hard-Boiled Eggs with a Cup of Beverage
Please note that a hard-boiled egg is boiled for a longer amount of time, typically 10 to 12 minutes, so that both the yolk and white are fully cooked and solid.
Hard-boiled eggs are a protein-rich option that can be prepared in advance and served with whole-grain toast, and a cup of hot or cold beverage.
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Bread and Tea
Bread and tea no doubt is the meal that readily comes to mind when we talk about breakfast in some quarters. Interestingly, there are different types of bread, and you may want to choose a bread option based on what the people in the homeless shelter want.
For example, wholemeal bread is an excellent source of dietary roughage and fiber, which aid digestion. Tea contains the mild stimulant caffeine, which some people enjoy in the morning to temporarily boost their alertness.
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Peanut Butter Banana Sandwiches
The peanut butter and banana sandwich (PB&B), or peanut butter, banana, and bacon sandwich, sometimes referred to as an Elvis sandwich is a sandwich with toasted bread, peanut butter, sliced or mashed banana, and occasionally bacon. You can actually combine whole-grain bread with peanut butter and sliced bananas for a filling breakfast.
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Breakfast Burritos
A burrito is a Mexican dish consisting of a flour tortilla tightly wrapped around a filling of various ingredients, typically high-protein meats, beans, cheese, rice, and salsa.
In order to prepare breakfast burritos, you can wrap scrambled eggs, black beans, and salsa in a tortilla for a portable breakfast option.
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Fruit Salad Cups
Fruit salad is a dish consisting of various kinds of fruit, sometimes served in a liquid, either juices or syrup. In different forms, fruit salad can be served as an appetizer or a side as a salad. Fresh fruits are a refreshing and vitamin-packed breakfast.
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Cheese and Veggie Omelet
Veggie Omelet is a classic omelet stuffed with cooked red onions, peppers, mushrooms, and spinach. If you are looking for a way to switch up your breakfast, try this high-protein egg breakfast loaded with vegetables. Interestingly, this superfood omelet is full of nutrient-rich veggies.
Brussels sprouts and kale provide folate and glycosylate, seaweed is full of minerals, and avocados are loaded with healthy monounsaturated and saturated fats. You are sure to power through your day with this delicious and nutritious breakfast
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Whole-Grain Muffins
Whole grain muffins may be especially beneficial for maintaining a moderate weight. Not only do they contain more fiber than other varieties, but studies suggest that a higher intake of whole grains may be linked to a lower body weight and a lower body mass index. You may choose to provide whole-grain muffins with options like blueberries or nuts for added flavor and nutrition.
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Bagel with Cream Cheese and Smoked Salmon
A bagel with cream cheese and smoked salmon is actually a pretty healthy meal, with all the omega-3s and protein from the fish.
However, by making a few small tweaks, your traditional salmon bagel can be even healthier—something you could enjoy every single morning and feel awesome eating. Of course, you know you can easily create a bagel bar with cream cheese, smoked salmon, and assorted toppings.
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Cottage Cheese with Pineapple
Pineapple Cottage Cheese Bowl is a nutritious recipe that can give your day the much-needed kickstart. Made with crumbled cottage cheese and pineapple pieces, topped up with a hint of honey, this breakfast recipe is not just filling for the stomach but also is a refreshing change from monotonous and regular meals.
Note that the pineapple has to be heated first to deactivate the natural enzymes that would otherwise break down the proteins.
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Rice Pudding
This raisin-studded dessert rice pudding is thickened with an egg, sweetened with sugar, and enhanced with vanilla. Rice pudding offers some nutritional benefits, including almost 10 grams of protein and 15 percent of the daily recommendation for bone-building calcium per cup. You can comfortably serve rice pudding with cinnamon and raisins for a comforting breakfast.
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Quinoa Breakfast Bowls
A breakfast quinoa bowl is a healthy and filling way to start your day. All you need to do is pile fluffy quinoa high with veggies and finish it with avocado and a jammy egg.
Quinoa breakfast bowl is considered to be healthier than oatmeal, and it is a fantastic choice for vegetarians. You can actually cook quinoa and top it with Greek yogurt, berries, and a sprinkle of nuts.
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Vegetarian Breakfast Wraps
Vegetarian breakfast wraps are a nutritious morning option, featuring whole-grain wraps filled with scrambled eggs and a medley of sautéed vegetables.
This protein-packed dish provides a flavorful and satisfying breakfast, suitable for those who follow a vegetarian diet or simply seek a wholesome start to their day.
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Pancake Stacks
Pancake stacks are a delicious breakfast choice made by stacking several pancakes and topping them with diverse ingredients like syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream.
While they are a delightful treat, it’s essential to balance the toppings with nutritious options like berries or nuts for added vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats.
Whole-grain or multigrain pancakes can further enhance the nutritional profile, providing fiber and sustaining energy, making them a more wholesome breakfast option.
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Breakfast Pizza
Breakfast pizza is no doubt a good option when considering a breakfast option for a homeless shelter. All you need to do is create mini breakfast pizzas using whole-grain English muffins, eggs, and vegetables. Apart from the fact that this is filling, it also has nutritional benefits.
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Cornmeal Porridge
Cornmeal porridge is made with yellow cornmeal, infused with earthy spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Most often condensed and/or coconut milk is added for a rich and sweet taste.
Cornmeal porridge is gluten-free making it suitable for those who are gluten intolerant. Cornmeal is high in dietary fiber which promotes good digestive health.
Porridge made from cornmeal is high in energy-rich carbohydrates, metabolism-boosting iron, and cell-enhancing phosphorus.
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Vegan Chia Seed Pudding
This 3-Ingredient Chia Pudding is made with almond milk, chia seeds & sweetener of choice; it is a healthy snack loaded with protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
Chia pudding makes a really nutritionally rich breakfast or snack. It is also filling so will keep you full until lunch. Chia seeds are also very high in antioxidants, which help prevent cell damage from free radicals.
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Breakfast Tacos
Texas is the birthplace of the breakfast taco, which is consumed throughout the state but is best in Austin, San Antonio, and the Rio Grande Valley.
Tacos have long been eaten for breakfast in Mexico. Breakfast tacos are made with scrambled eggs, refried beans, and at least two toppings.
Interestingly, breakfast tacos can be customized to suit individual preferences and dietary requirements. To make them even more delicious, you may choose to top it with salsa, sour cream, and guacamole.
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Smoothie Bowls
Smoothie bowls are essentially nutrient-dense smoothies, thick enough to eat with a spoon and often topped with fruits, nuts, seeds, muesli, or granola.
To make a smoothie bowl, simply blend together your favorite fruits, vegetables, and other ingredients, and then top with granola, nuts, and seeds.
Note that while smoothie bowls can be inherently healthy, be careful not to overdo it with large portions and high-calorie ingredients.