Chinese breakfast

I am not sure if “bread” is the official term for this. It’s firm, bitey and crunchy. The coating of sesame seeds gives it a lovely aroma…

(Visit Macro Monday for more macro/close-up shots)

I found this breakfast “bread” in a hutong (narrow streets with traditional houses) in Beijing. I was looking for some breakfast one morning when I spotted a particularly busy shop. There was a long queue, so I figured the food must be good. I joined the queue not knowing what was on offer. With sign language, I managed to order my breakfast.

 
The queue outside the shop.

 
My bowl of soup with beancurd and “bean balls” (not its official name – I made up the name because they are made of beans).

I sat on a bench, and ate my breakfast with the locals. Everyone around me seemed to be enjoying their meal. The wrinkled old lady next to me dipped her bread into the soup, and ate quickly. She slurped loudly and left when her food was gone. Many people asked for additional soup, which was free (only the liquid).

I had a great time people-watching. I didn’t like the soup much, but I enjoyed the bread, and loved the atmosphere.