What Is In Everything Bagel Seasoning?
Everything bagel seasoning is a flavorful and versatile blend of seeds, dried aromatics, and salt. It typically consists of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic flakes, dried onion flakes, and coarse salt.
A Brief History of the Everything Bagel
The origins of the everything bagel, and consequently everything bagel seasoning, are debated. Several bakers lay claim to inventing this popular flavor profile, but a commonly accepted story points to David Gussin, a bagel baker in Long Island in the 1970s. While cleaning the bagel oven, Gussin reportedly collected all the loose seeds and toppings at the bottom and suggested using them together. The result? A delightful combination that quickly gained popularity and became the ubiquitous “everything” bagel we know and love.
The Core Ingredients Explained
Each ingredient in everything bagel seasoning contributes uniquely to its overall flavor and texture profile:
- Sesame Seeds: Providing a nutty flavor and a slightly crunchy texture. Both white and black sesame seeds are often used for visual appeal.
- Poppy Seeds: Offering a subtle, earthy flavor and a satisfying, delicate crunch. These add a visually distinct element to the mix.
- Dried Garlic Flakes: Delivering a potent, savory garlic punch that complements the other ingredients. Garlic granules can sometimes be used as a substitute.
- Dried Onion Flakes: Imparting a mild, sweet onion flavor that balances the saltiness. Minced onion may also be used, though it can clump more easily.
- Coarse Salt: Enhancing all the other flavors and providing a crucial salty element that ties everything together. Sea salt flakes or kosher salt are frequently preferred.
The Perfect Balance: Ratios and Proportions
The key to a great everything bagel seasoning blend lies in achieving the right balance between the ingredients. While specific ratios vary according to personal preference, a common starting point is:
| Ingredient | Approximate Ratio (by volume) |
|---|---|
| Sesame Seeds | 4 parts |
| Poppy Seeds | 2 parts |
| Dried Garlic Flakes | 1 part |
| Dried Onion Flakes | 1 part |
| Coarse Salt | 1 part |
Adjusting these ratios allows you to customize the seasoning to your taste. For example, increasing the garlic or onion flakes will result in a more intense savory flavor, while adding more poppy seeds will enhance the crunch.
From Bagels to Beyond: Versatile Uses
While primarily associated with bagels, everything bagel seasoning has become a wildly popular addition to a wide range of dishes. Its versatility extends far beyond its namesake:
- Avocado Toast: A classic pairing that elevates simple avocado toast to a new level.
- Eggs: Sprinkling it on scrambled eggs, omelets, or fried eggs adds a delightful savory crunch.
- Chicken and Fish: Use it as a coating for baked or pan-fried chicken or fish for added flavor and texture.
- Vegetables: Roasting vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots with everything bagel seasoning enhances their natural sweetness.
- Dips and Spreads: Mixing it into cream cheese, hummus, or sour cream creates a flavorful and unique dip.
- Salads: A sprinkle on top of salads adds a delightful crunch and savory element.
- Popcorn: Who needs butter when you can have everything bagel popcorn?
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Despite its simplicity, there are a few common pitfalls to avoid when using everything bagel seasoning:
- Over-Salting: Be mindful of the amount of salt already present in the seasoning, especially when adding it to salty foods.
- Uneven Distribution: Ensure that the seasoning is evenly distributed when applying it to food to avoid concentrated pockets of flavor.
- Burning: When baking or roasting, keep a close eye on the seasoning, as the garlic and onion flakes can burn easily.
- Storage: Store everything bagel seasoning in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to prevent the ingredients from losing their flavor or becoming stale.
Making Your Own: A Simple Guide
Creating your own everything bagel seasoning is incredibly easy and allows for complete customization. Here’s a simple guide:
- Gather your ingredients: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic flakes, dried onion flakes, and coarse salt.
- Combine the ingredients in a bowl, adjusting the ratios to your preference.
- Store the seasoning in an airtight container.
- Enjoy!
Health Benefits (and Considerations)
While everything bagel seasoning is primarily used for flavor, some of its ingredients offer potential health benefits:
- Sesame Seeds: A good source of calcium, iron, and fiber.
- Poppy Seeds: Contain minerals such as calcium, iron, and magnesium.
- Garlic and Onion: Known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
However, it’s important to be mindful of the sodium content due to the coarse salt. Individuals with sodium restrictions should use it sparingly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the shelf life of everything bagel seasoning?
Everything bagel seasoning typically lasts for 6-12 months when stored properly in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. The dried ingredients are shelf-stable, but the flavors will gradually diminish over time.
Can I use pre-ground spices instead of flakes?
While you can use ground spices, the flavor and texture won’t be the same. The coarse texture of the flakes is a key component of the seasoning’s appeal.
Is everything bagel seasoning gluten-free?
The seasoning itself is naturally gluten-free as it consists only of seeds, dried aromatics, and salt. However, cross-contamination can occur during processing, so be sure to check the label if you have a severe gluten allergy.
Can I make a vegan version of everything bagel seasoning?
Yes, everything bagel seasoning is naturally vegan as it doesn’t contain any animal products.
What’s the difference between black and white sesame seeds in the seasoning?
The main difference is the visual appeal. Black sesame seeds have a slightly more intense flavor, but the difference is subtle. You can use either or a combination of both.
Where can I buy everything bagel seasoning?
Everything bagel seasoning is widely available at most grocery stores, particularly in the spice aisle. You can also find it online from various retailers.
Can I add other ingredients to my homemade everything bagel seasoning?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other ingredients such as red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or dried dill for a herby note.
Is it safe for pregnant women to consume poppy seeds in everything bagel seasoning?
While poppy seeds do contain trace amounts of opiates, the levels are extremely low in everything bagel seasoning and are generally considered safe for pregnant women in moderation. Consult your doctor if you have any concerns.
How do I prevent the seasoning from falling off my food?
For baked goods, try brushing the surface with egg wash or melted butter before applying the seasoning. This will help it adhere better. For other foods, a light coating of oil or sauce can also work.
Can I use everything bagel seasoning on sweet dishes?
While it’s not a common pairing, some adventurous cooks have experimented with everything bagel seasoning on sweet treats like cookies or pastries. The salty-savory combination can be surprisingly delicious!
What is everything but the bagel seasoning?
“Everything but the bagel” seasoning is simply another name for everything bagel seasoning. It humorously implies that you can have all the flavors of an everything bagel without the bagel itself.
How can I make my own dried garlic and onion flakes for the seasoning?
You can dehydrate thinly sliced garlic and onion in a dehydrator or a low oven (around 170°F) until they are completely dry and brittle. Then, crush them into flakes. This allows for complete control over the ingredients.