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In Asia, breakfast has long transcended the concept of a mere meal. It can be a political statement, a sacred spiritual ritual, or a reflection of personal identity and social status. From feudal dynasties to tranquil monasteries, from the tables of the nobility to those of powerful rulers, breakfast has always served as a profound cultural hallmark – where authority, virtue, and worldview are expressed through simple dishes like porridge, soup, or a morning cup of tea.
In Asia, breakfast has long transcended the concept of a mere meal.
Long before brunch became a social media trend, history has shown that emperors, Buddhist monks, and Eastern statesmen understood the soft power inherent in breakfast. The first meal of the day, therefore, can be seen as a multifaceted metaphor for harmony, discipline, abundance, or moderation—fundamental values in East Asian culture. Exploring the rituals and customs surrounding breakfast in Asian countries is also a way to trace back history and understand the depth of philosophy and spirit of ancient civilizations.
Korea
For Buddhist practitioners in Korea, mornings often begin with Juk, a light porridge made from rice, grains, or beans, and absolutely no garlic or onions. The main purpose of this dish is to help clear the mind and improve digestion before engaging in deep meditation sessions at temples such as Beomeosa or Guinsa.
Although initially associated with the monastic community, Juk porridge's origins extend back to the Joseon dynasty, when palace chefs—primarily women trained in Buddhist cooking—took charge. This fusion of royal and temple cooking transformed Juk into a symbol of Confucianism, while retaining its natural and pure flavor. Today, temple visitors can sit on mats to enjoy Juk in a tranquil setting, contemplating the harmony between culinary delights and the power of deep concentration.
Tibet
Meanwhile, breakfast in the Himalayas is a vivid metaphor for endurance and unwavering spirit. In Tibetan monasteries, such as Tashi Lhunpo, the day begins with tsampa – roasted barley flour mixed with hot butter tea (po cha) to form a thick paste. This simple dish not only helps ward off the cold of the highlands but also symbolizes the Tibetan people's restrained, self-controlled lifestyle and close connection with nature. For them, tsampa may be enjoyed hastily before a prayer service or carried along on long journeys through the snow-capped mountains – as a symbol of resilience and unwavering faith.
However, tsampa and po cha butter tea are not just sources of energy for the day. They are also symbols of resilience, self-reliance, and the ability to harmonize with harsh nature. In the frigid climate of the "roof of the world," these simple foods help keep the body warm, nourish inner strength for meditation, and overcome challenges. Hidden behind each sip of tea, each handful of roasted flour, is a philosophy of unwavering resilience and adaptability that has nurtured the Tibetan spirit for centuries.
India
In India, breakfast is a clear reflection of one's purpose in life, social status, and chosen path. In the royal palaces of Awadh or Rajasthan, each breakfast is a lavish feast. Nihari—a stew of meat and marrow served at dawn to kings and princes, accompanied by saffron milk, dried fruit, and thin shemal bread—represents the extravagance of Ayurveda.
Conversely, at the monasteries of Kerala, Kanji – a type of rice porridge seasoned only with Egyptian cumin and coconut – represents moderation and purity. This difference persists among modern politicians: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is said to favor Ayurvedic porridge and methi thepla bread, dishes that demonstrate an emphasis on health and nationalism, clearly reflecting his personal philosophy.
Myanmar
Meanwhile, in Myanmar, mohinga – a rice noodle dish with a broth made from freshwater fish simmered with local spices – may not be a royal dish, but it possesses a special, rustic charm. Mohinga is ubiquitous, often sold by street vendors at dawn, attracting large crowds of locals.
Thanks to chickpea flour, this dish becomes thick and is served with a variety of toppings. Political leaders have used the familiar image of mohinga to express closeness and populism. Mohinga has become a symbol of national unity, proving that a simple and familiar dish can also be a sophisticated diplomatic tool, embodying the culture, history, and philosophy of a nation.
Japan
At the Japanese imperial court, breakfast was not merely a culinary ritual, but also considered a quiet and subtle lesson in diplomacy. This custom, known as Ichiju-sansai, meaning "one soup, three side dishes," reflects the harmonious and purposeful combination of rice, miso soup, grilled fish, egg rolls, and seasonal vegetables.
The roots of Ichiju-sansai lie in yūsoku ryōri – the refined culinary style of the Heian aristocracy, which later became a standard ritual in samurai households during the Edo period. Emphasizing elegance and propriety, dishes are served on low trays and lacquerware, reflecting the essence of Japanese culture: order, balance, and respect for minimalist beauty.
During important political events, serving breakfast in the Ichiju-sansai style to high-ranking officials is not only a matter of courtesy but also a manifestation of refined cultural diplomacy. A bowl of soup with three side dishes not only suggests abundance but also conveys the message that strength lies within simplicity.
