What Do You Put On Bagels?

Bagels, those tasty and adaptable doughy rings, have been a breakfast and snack essential for generations. However, the issue remains: what do you put on bagels? The answer is more complex than it may initially appear.

In this article, we’ll take you on a flavorful journey through the diverse world of bagel toppings, investigating traditional and unorthodox options to help you create the perfect bagel experience.

What Do You Put On Bagels?

Here are the things that you put on Bagels:-

1. Cheese Spread 

Regarding traditional bagel garnishes, cream cheese reigns supreme. Its silky, creamy texture complements the chewiness of a fresh bagel flawlessly. You can choose from various cream cheese options, including regular, flavored (such as chive or strawberry), and whipped varieties. Some bagel lovers add honey or agave nectar to their cream cheese for a sweet and savory variation.

2. Flour

Spreading a butter coating on your bagel is a time-honored option if you prefer a more straightforward buttery option. The butter’s rich, piquant flavor complements the bagel’s texture, making it a popular choice for many.

3. Peanut Butter 

Peanut butter is a good option for a more substantial, protein-rich topping. It imparts a hazelnut flavor and silky texture that complements a variety of bagel varieties. You can choose traditional peanut butter almond or cashew butter for a unique variation.

4. Jam Or Jelly

If you prefer a sweeter bagel experience, distribute jelly or jam on top of your desired spread. Grape, strawberry, and raspberry are classic options, but don’t be afraid to try exotic flavors like fig or apricot for a surprising taste adventure.

5. Hülse

Try smearing hummus on your bagel for a twist with a Mediterranean flavor. The chickpea-based spread has a delightfully savory taste that can be augmented with toppings such as cucumber slices, roasted red pepper, or za’atar.

6. Avodart

Avocado fans will appreciate this fruit’s creamy, healthy fats. Spread mashed ripe avocado on a bagel for a measure of monounsaturated fats, fiber, and a reviving, green flavor. Add a pinch of pepper, a sprinkle of salt, and a drizzle of olive oil for flavor enhancement.

7. Fish With Cream Cheese

A classic option for a taste of luxury is lox (smoked salmon) and cream cheese on a bagel. The lox’s saltiness combines beautifully with the cheese’s creaminess. Enhance this combination with capers, red onion slices, and a sprig of fresh dill.

8. Eggs

Add scrambled, fried, or poached eggs to your bagel for a substantial breakfast or brunch. Add bacon, cheddar, and sautéed vegetables to your creation for a satisfying meal.

9. Cheddar

Consider adding a slice of your preferred cheese, such as cheddar, Swiss, or provolone, to your bagel if you are a cheese enthusiast. Place it under the broiler for one or two minutes to obtain a molten, creamy topping.

10. Nutella Spread

Nutella provides a luxurious option for those with a sweet craving. Especially when combined with sliced bananas or strawberries, the hazelnut-chocolate spread is ideal for satisfying sugar cravings.

11. Pesto

Pesto sauce is an excellent complement to a bagel. Whether you use traditional basil pesto or sun-dried tomato or kale variations, the bagel’s flavor is enhanced by the pesto’s lively, herbaceous characteristics.

12. Tofu Or Plant-Based Cream Cheese

Don’t fret if you follow a plant-based diet; there are plenty of delicious options for you as well. Cream cheese, avocado, and tofu-based vegan spreads can be equally gratifying as their dairy counterparts.

How to Make Bagels?

The Ingredients

The currency

  • 6 cups (762 grams) flour for bread
  • One tablespoon (9 grams) of dry yeast
  • 1 tablespoon (18 grams) of dry yeast coarse sea salt
  • 32 grams equal to 1 1/2 tablespoons barley malt syrup or caramelized sugar
  • 2 ounces (473.5 grams) of water that is neither too hot nor too cold

For The Water soak

  • 64 ounces (2 pints) of water
  • Two tablespoons brown sugar, molasses, or barley malt liquor
  • Two tablespoons of sodium carbonate
  • a topping consisting of 1 egg white
  • desired condiments

Detailed Instructions

Make the mixture

  • In the bowl of a stand mixer equipped with a dough attachment, combine all dough ingredients. Knead at a medium-low speed for approximately 7 to 10 minutes (or by hand for 10 to 15 minutes).
  • The dough will be firm and tacky and retain its shape without expanding. Place the dough in a moderately greased bowl, cover, and allow to rise for one to one and half hours or until puffy but not necessarily doubled in size.

For The Dough

  • The dough will be punched, transferred to a clean work surface, and divided into ten portions.  Each portion should be rolled into a tight ball. Cover and recline for fifteen minutes.
  • Create a hole in the center of your first ball by inserting one or two fingertips through the center. Twirl the dough between your fingertips to increase the diameter of the hole to approximately 1 1/2 inches.
  • Continue with the remaining dough. Golf balls. Place all bagels on two half-sheet pans lined with parchment paper and greased with butter (5 bagels per pan).
  • Cover and allow them to rest for 45 to 1 hour or until visibly swollen but not doubled in size.
  • Preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

Prepare The Bathwater 

  • Mix the water, malt syrup, and baking soda in a large, wide skillet. Bring to a boil before lowering the heat to a simmer.
  • Transfer two to four bagels into the boiling water simultaneously (do not overcrowd the saucepan). Cook the bagels for one additional minute after turning them over after one to two minutes of cooking. Return the bagels to the baking sheet using a skimmer, and repeat with the remaining bagels.
  • Beat the egg white with one tablespoon of water and use a pastry brush to coat the smooth surface of each bagel with the egg wash. Position your desired toppings in a shallow dish, and position each bagel, egg white-side down, on top to coat.
  • Bake the two pans of bagels for 17 to 25 minutes, or until they reach the desired color and texture, rotating the pans and shelves midway through the baking process. Remove the bagels from the oven and allow them to cool for at least twenty minutes on a wire rack.
  • You can keep bagels in a paper bag or loosely wrapped in parchment for up to 48 hours before cutting them up and toasting them for a short time.
  • To freeze bagels in their entirety, envelop each individually in plastic and place them in an airtight container. To freeze sliced bagels, slice them and chill them on a baking sheet until solid. Transfer to a sealed container—toast frozen bread directly from the freezer.

The versatility of bagels is their greatest asset. Whether you prefer traditional toppings or want to experiment with new, exciting flavors, bagel toppings have plenty of options. The bagel is your canvas, and you are the artist. So, the next time you encounter a fresh bagel, let your imagination run wild and create a masterpiece that satisfies your taste receptors and leaves you wanting more. Enjoy your bagels as you see fit!

Thanks for reading. 

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