Everything Bagel: 3 Powerful Secrets to Bake It Best!

Have you ever wondered what makes a bagel with assorted toppings so irresistible? Is it the perfect combination of flavors, the chewy texture, or the satisfying crunch with each bite? If you’re a fan of this iconic breakfast item, you’re in for a treat! In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating world of bagels, uncovering their history, cultural significance, and the secrets to baking them perfectly. Get ready to enhance your bagel-making skills and delight your taste buds like never before!

The History of Everything Bagel

The everything bagel has a rich history that dates back to the early 1980s. While the exact origin is debated, many credit David Gussin, a teenage bagel baker in Queens, New York, for inventing this beloved variety. Gussin’s creation quickly gained popularity, spreading from local bakeries to nationwide chains. Today, the everything bagel is a staple in many households and a favorite among bagel enthusiasts.

What Makes an Everything Bagel ‘Everything’

So, what exactly goes into an everything bagel? The magic lies in the perfect blend of toppings that create a symphony of flavors. A classic everything bagel is generously coated with a mixture of poppy seeds, sesame seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt. This combination offers a satisfying crunch and a savory taste that complements the chewy bagel base. The beauty of the everything bagel lies in its versatility—each bite delivers a slightly different flavor profile, keeping your taste buds engaged from start to finish.

The Cultural Impact of Everything Bagel

Beyond its delicious taste, the everything bagel has made a significant impact on popular culture. It has been featured in numerous TV shows and movies and even inspired a popular seasoning blend called “Everything But The Bagel.”. This seasoning has taken the culinary world by storm, allowing people to enjoy the flavors of an everything bagel on various dishes, from avocado toast to roasted vegetables. The everything bagel has become more than just a breakfast item; it’s a cultural icon that represents comfort, tradition, and culinary creativity.

How to Prepare a Bagel with Everything at Home

Now that you’re craving an everything bagel, let’s dive into the secrets of baking them to perfection at home. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve bagel bliss:

1. Prepare the dough: Mix together high-protein flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast. Slowly add warm water and knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
2. Let the dough rise: Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size.
3. Shape the bagels: Divide the dough into equal portions and shape each one into a smooth ball. Press your thumb through the center to create a hole, then gently stretch the dough to form a bagel shape.
4. Boil the bagels: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add a tablespoon of sugar. Boil the bagels for 1-2 minutes on each side, then remove them with a slotted spoon.
5. Add the toppings: Mix together poppy seeds, sesame seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt in a shallow dish. Brush each bagel with an egg wash and generously coat them with the everything seasoning mix.
6. Bake to perfection: Place the bagels on a lined baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

By following these steps and using high-quality ingredients, you’ll be able to create everything bagels that rival those from your favorite bakery.

Variations of the Everything Bagel

While the classic everything bagel is hard to beat, there are countless variations that offer exciting twists on this beloved recipe. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next baking adventure:

• Everything Bagel Pretzels: Give soft pretzels an everything-bagel makeover by shaping the dough into pretzel twists and coating them with the signature seasoning blend.
• Everything Bagel Crackers: Roll out the dough extra thin, cut it into cracker shapes, and bake until crispy for a snackable version of the everything-bagel.
• Everything Bagel Rolls: Transform your favorite dinner rolls by brushing them with egg wash and sprinkling them with everything bagel seasoning before baking.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to incorporating the flavors of an everything-bagel into your favorite recipes.

Pairing Suggestions for Everything Bagels

An everything bagel is delicious on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of spreads and toppings. You should try these delicious combinations:

• Classic Cream Cheese: Spread a generous layer of plain or flavored cream cheese on your everything-bagel for a creamy and indulgent treat.
• Smoked Salmon and Capers: Top your everything-bagel with smoked salmon, cream cheese, red onion, and capers for a sophisticated and satisfying breakfast or brunch.
• Avocado and Egg: Mash ripe avocado onto your everything-bagel and add a fried or poached egg for a protein-packed and nutritious meal.
• Hummus and Veggies: For a plant-based option, spread hummus on your everything-bagel and pile on your favorite sliced vegetables, such as cucumber, tomato, and bell pepper.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavor combinations to find your perfect everything bagel pairing.

Conclusion

Everything-bagels have captured the hearts and taste buds of food lovers around the world, and for good reason. With their irresistible combination of savory toppings, chewy texture, and versatile nature, they have become a beloved staple in the breakfast and brunch scene. By understanding the history, cultural impact, and secrets to baking the perfect everything-bagel, you can now create these delightful treats in the comfort of your own home.

So, what are you waiting for? Preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to embark on a delicious everything-bagel journey. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or venture into exciting variations, remember that the key to the best everything-bagels ever lies in the quality of ingredients, the care you put into the baking process, and the joy of sharing them with those you love.Happy baking, and may your everything-bagels be everything you’ve ever dreamed of!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the nutritional value of an everything-bagel? 

A bagel typically contains around 250-300 calories, depending on the size and ingredients used. It also provides a good source of carbohydrates, fiber, and protein.

2. Can I make my own everything-bagel seasoning blend? 

Absolutely! To make your own everything-bagel seasoning, mix together equal parts of poppy seeds, sesame seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt. In order to use the blend later, store it in an airtight container.

3. Are everything-bagels vegan-friendly?

Most everything-bagels are vegan-friendly, as they are typically made with flour, water, yeast, and salt. However, be sure to check the ingredients list, as some recipes may include honey, eggs, or dairy products.

4. How can I store homemade everything-bagels? 

To keep your homemade everything-bagels fresh, store them in an airtight container or plastic bag at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, slice the bagels in half and freeze them for up to 3 months.

5. How can you utilize everything-bagel seasoning in inventive ways?

Everything-bagel seasoning is incredibly versatile and can be used to add flavor to a variety of dishes. Try sprinkling it on avocado toast, roasted vegetables, popcorn, or even using it as a crust for baked chicken or fish.

3 Powerful Secrets to Bake the Best Everything Bagels Ever!

Recipe by SelenaCourse: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Medium

Servings

12

Bagels

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Calories

250

kcal

Discover the secrets to baking the best everything bagels ever! Learn how to create this iconic, savory treat at home with our step-by-step guide and expert tips.

Ingredients

• For the Bagels:

• 4 cups high-protein flour

• 2 teaspoons salt

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• 2 teaspoons instant yeast

• 1 ½ cups warm water

• For the Toppings:

• 2 tablespoons poppy seeds

• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds

• 2 tablespoons dried garlic

• 2 tablespoons dried onion

• 1 tablespoon salt

• For the Boiling:

• 1 tablespoon sugar (for boiling water)

• For the Egg Wash:

• 1 egg (beaten)

Step By Step

• Prepare the Dough:
  In a large mixing bowl, combine high-protein flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast. Gradually add warm water and mix to form a dough. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic.
• Let the Dough Rise:
  Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
• Shape the Bagels:
  Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball. Press your thumb through the center and stretch it to form a bagel shape.
• Boil the Bagels:
  Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 tablespoon of sugar. Carefully lower the bagels into the water, boiling for 1-2 minutes on each side.
• Add the Toppings:
  In a shallow dish, mix poppy seeds, sesame seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt. Brush each bagel with an egg wash and generously coat with the seasoning mix.
• Bake the Bagels:
  Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the bagels on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
• Cool and Serve:
  Let the bagels cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.

Recipe Video

Notes

• Flour: Use high-protein flour for the best bagel texture. All-purpose flour can work but may result in a slightly softer bagel.
• Seasoning Variations: Feel free to get creative with the everything bagel seasoning mix. Try adding some dried herbs or spices to make it unique to your taste.
• Storage: Store the bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. To keep them longer, slice and freeze them for up to 3 months.