IT IS often said that breakfast is the most important meal of the day.
For the Greeks, evidence in Homer shows that bread formed the basis of the early meal and even describes one in The Odyssey, consisting of meat from the day before with bread and wine. Olives and cheese were a favourite part of the ancient Greeks’ morning dish, but they also ate bread and fruit for breakfast. Instead of beer, they drank sweet wine, or dipped their bread into wine. They also liked tea made from herbs.
Ancient Romans usually ate breakfast when they awoke or at sunrise. For the ordinary poor Roman, this was a light repast of bread and water. Wealthier Romans also ate bread but with cheese, honey and fruit, accompanied by a drink of water or wine.
From medieval times to the 19th century, Europeans often drank ale or wine as part of breakfast, primarily because water supplies were not as reliable.