• Breakfast is an important meal in Portuguese culture.portugal image by caironbohemio from Fotolia.com
  
  Breakfast is an important meal for the Portuguese, whether they are grabbing a bit to eat at the local coffee shop on their way to work or sitting down for a more leisurely meal with family and friends on the weekend. Coffee is the choice drink for many Portuguese in the morning and is offered anywhere that breakfast is being served.
  
  

Croissants

• There are two different types of croissants that the Portuguese typically eat for breakfast. The first type is similar to a French croissant and can be plain or filled with custard and/or almond paste. If you have a sweet tooth, this version is probably the best choice for you, but be aware that these croissants can be very rich, especially for the morning. The second version is heavier and has a similar consistency to bread. It is common to eat this croissant with ham and cheese for a more filling meal.
  
  

Breakfast Breads and Toasts

• The national bread of the country is called "pao" and can be seen in a variety of different forms, whether it is heavy or light, sweet or sour. Portuguese like "torrada" (toast) with their coffee and often substitute this as a healthier alternative to a croissant. A popular toast is one with soft-crusted bread called "de forma." This type of toast with butter is a favorite breakfast food for many children. Milk rolls, which are slightly sweetened, are widely enjoyed for breakfast with a half milk coffee. Rebanadas is similar to french toast, where the bread is soaked in juice and raisins and then cooked with sugar and egg for delicious results.
  
  

Breakfast Sandwiches

• "Tostas" are toasted sandwiches that are an option for brunch, paired with some fresh fruit juice or coffee. Some common tostas are "tosta con quejo," which is with cheese; or "tosta mixta," which is with ham and cheese.