The everything bagel. It’s a culinary marvel, a breakfast staple, and a testament to the beauty of simplicity and bold flavor. But what truly elevates this already delicious canvas? Is it the classic cream cheese, or are there more adventurous toppings waiting to be discovered? Let’s embark on a delicious journey to explore the best toppings for your everything bagel, considering both the traditional and the tantalizingly unexpected.
The Foundation: Understanding the Everything Bagel
Before we delve into the toppings, let’s appreciate the bagel itself. What makes an everything bagel an “everything bagel”? It’s the harmonious blend of flavors and textures sprinkled generously across its surface.
The classic everything bagel seasoning typically consists of:
- Poppy Seeds: Providing a nutty, slightly sweet flavor and a satisfying crunch.
- Sesame Seeds: Adding a richer, more pronounced nutty taste and visual appeal.
- Dried Garlic Flakes: Delivering a pungent, savory kick that’s essential to the “everything” experience.
- Dried Onion Flakes: Offering a milder, sweeter onion flavor that complements the garlic.
- Salt: Enhancing all the other flavors and providing a crucial savory element.
Sometimes, caraway seeds are included for an earthy, slightly licorice-like note. This medley creates a complex, savory profile that pairs well with a wide range of toppings.
The beauty of the everything bagel lies in its ability to stand alone. It’s perfectly acceptable to simply enjoy it toasted, plain, and unadorned. However, adding the right topping transforms it into a complete and unforgettable meal.
The Classics: Time-Honored Toppings
Some pairings are classics for a reason. They’re reliable, delicious, and have stood the test of time. Let’s explore some of the most beloved and frequently chosen toppings for the everything bagel.
Cream Cheese: The Undisputed Champion
It’s hard to imagine an everything bagel without cream cheese. The smooth, tangy richness of cream cheese provides the perfect counterpoint to the savory, crunchy bagel. Its simplicity allows the bagel’s flavor to shine through while adding a creamy, satisfying texture.
Plain cream cheese is the go-to choice for many, but don’t be afraid to experiment. Chive and onion cream cheese adds an extra layer of savory goodness, while vegetable cream cheese introduces a fresh, vibrant element. Even a simple swirl of honey cream cheese can create a delightful sweet-and-savory combination.
The key to the perfect cream cheese application is generousness. Don’t skimp! A thick layer ensures that every bite is a balanced explosion of flavor. Consider whipping the cream cheese for an even lighter, airier texture.
Lox and Schmear: A New York Tradition
For a truly authentic New York experience, lox (smoked salmon) and cream cheese are a must. The salty, smoky flavor of the lox pairs beautifully with the tangy cream cheese and the savory everything bagel.
Adding capers introduces a briny, slightly sour element that cuts through the richness of the salmon. Thinly sliced red onion provides a sharp, pungent bite, while fresh dill adds a refreshing, herbaceous note. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the entire combination.
This topping combination isn’t just a meal; it’s a cultural icon. It represents a tradition of culinary excellence and a dedication to simple, high-quality ingredients.
Butter: Simplicity at its Finest
Sometimes, the best things in life are the simplest. A pat of butter, especially salted butter, melts into the warm, toasted everything bagel, creating a rich, comforting flavor.
The saltiness of the butter enhances the savory notes of the bagel seasoning, while the buttery richness adds a luxurious touch. This is a great option for those who prefer a less heavy or tangy topping than cream cheese.
For an extra touch of flavor, consider using flavored butter, such as garlic herb butter or honey butter. These additions can elevate the simple buttered bagel into something truly special.
Venturing Beyond: Exploring Creative Toppings
While the classics are undeniably delicious, there’s a whole world of exciting and unexpected toppings waiting to be discovered. Let’s explore some more adventurous options that can transform your everything bagel into a culinary masterpiece.
Avocado: The Healthy and Delicious Choice
Avocado toast has become a breakfast staple, and it works just as well on an everything bagel. The creamy, healthy fats of the avocado provide a rich, satisfying base.
A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a touch of heat, while a squeeze of lime juice brightens the flavor. Everything bagel seasoning complements the avocado beautifully, enhancing its natural flavor. For an extra layer of protein, consider adding a fried egg or some crumbled feta cheese.
Mashed avocado is a quick and easy option, but thinly sliced avocado adds a more elegant touch. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different textures and flavors to find your perfect avocado bagel combination.
Hummus: A Mediterranean Twist
Hummus, the creamy chickpea spread, is a surprisingly delicious topping for an everything bagel. Its nutty, slightly savory flavor pairs well with the bagel’s seasoning.
A drizzle of olive oil adds richness and depth, while a sprinkle of paprika provides a touch of smokiness. Toasted pine nuts add a delightful crunch, while chopped cucumbers and tomatoes bring freshness and vibrancy. This Mediterranean-inspired combination is both healthy and satisfying.
Different hummus varieties can also add interesting flavor profiles. Roasted red pepper hummus adds a sweet and smoky element, while garlic hummus intensifies the savory flavor.
Egg and Cheese: A Hearty and Filling Meal
Transform your everything bagel into a breakfast sandwich with the addition of egg and cheese. A fried egg, scrambled egg, or even an omelet nestled between the bagel halves creates a hearty and satisfying meal.
Cheddar cheese, Swiss cheese, or provolone cheese all work well, depending on your preference. Crispy bacon or sausage adds a smoky, savory element, while sautéed spinach or mushrooms bring a touch of freshness.
This topping combination is endlessly customizable. Experiment with different cheeses, meats, and vegetables to create your perfect breakfast bagel.
Nut Butter and Fruit: A Sweet and Savory Delight
For a unique and surprisingly delicious combination, try nut butter and fruit on your everything bagel. The creamy sweetness of the nut butter pairs well with the savory bagel seasoning, while the fruit adds a burst of freshness.
Peanut butter and banana is a classic combination, but almond butter and sliced apples or cashew butter and berries are also excellent choices. A sprinkle of chia seeds or flax seeds adds extra nutrition and texture.
This topping combination is a great option for those who crave a sweet-and-savory flavor profile. It’s also a healthy and satisfying way to start your day.
Pizza Bagel: A Nostalgic Treat
Recreate the classic pizza bagel experience with your everything bagel. Spread tomato sauce over the bagel halves, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, and add your favorite pizza toppings.
Pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, and peppers are all excellent choices. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This is a fun and easy way to enjoy a pizza-flavored treat on a bagel.
Consider using different types of cheese, such as provolone or parmesan, to add more flavor. A sprinkle of dried oregano or basil enhances the pizza experience.
Beyond the Obvious: Uncommon Topping Ideas
If you’re truly feeling adventurous, there are even more unusual toppings to explore. These combinations may sound strange at first, but they can be surprisingly delicious.
Consider trying:
- Goat Cheese and Fig Jam: The tangy goat cheese pairs beautifully with the sweet fig jam, creating a sophisticated and flavorful combination.
- Pesto and Roasted Tomatoes: The herbaceous pesto and the sweet, roasted tomatoes provide a vibrant and flavorful experience.
- Ricotta Cheese and Honey: The creamy ricotta cheese and the sweet honey create a simple yet elegant combination.
- Tapenade: The salty, olive-packed spread works well with everything bagel’s seasoning.
- Spicy Peanut Sauce: The peanut sauce adds a tangy, spicy flavor that contrasts well with the savory.
Building Your Perfect Everything Bagel: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating the perfect everything bagel is a personal journey. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you discover your ultimate topping combination:
- Choose your bagel: Start with a fresh, high-quality everything bagel.
- Toast it (optional): Toasting the bagel adds warmth and crispness.
- Select your base: Cream cheese, butter, avocado, or hummus are all great options.
- Add your protein (optional): Lox, egg, bacon, or sausage provide a satisfying protein boost.
- Incorporate vegetables: Sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, or spinach add freshness and nutrients.
- Enhance with herbs and spices: Dill, red pepper flakes, or paprika can add extra flavor.
- Experiment with sauces and spreads: Hot sauce, pesto, or balsamic glaze can add complexity.
- Don’t be afraid to try new things: The possibilities are endless!
Remember, the key is to experiment and find what you enjoy most. Don’t be afraid to try unconventional combinations.
Ultimately, the best topping for your everything bagel is the one that makes you happy. So, go forth, explore, and create your own culinary masterpiece!
What is the most classic topping for an everything bagel?
The most classic topping, without a doubt, is cream cheese. The cool, tangy richness of cream cheese provides a perfect counterpoint to the savory and complex flavors of the everything bagel seasoning. Its smooth texture complements the slightly chewy texture of the bagel itself, creating a satisfying and comforting culinary experience.
Beyond simply cream cheese, some prefer to elevate this classic pairing. Consider adding a slice of smoked salmon or lox for a more sophisticated breakfast or brunch. Alternatively, incorporating fresh vegetables like sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, or red onion can add a refreshing crunch and balance out the richness of the cream cheese and seasoning.
Are there any vegan alternatives to traditional cream cheese for an everything bagel?
Absolutely! The vegan cream cheese market has exploded in recent years, offering several excellent plant-based alternatives to traditional dairy-based cream cheese. These options are typically made from cashews, almonds, tofu, or a combination of plant-based ingredients, and they mimic the creamy texture and tangy flavor of regular cream cheese remarkably well.
Experiment with different brands and flavors to find your favorite vegan cream cheese. Some brands even offer flavored options, such as chive and onion or strawberry, which can add an extra layer of deliciousness to your everything bagel. Don’t be afraid to get creative and explore other vegan spreads, such as hummus or avocado, as well!
Can I use butter on an everything bagel instead of cream cheese?
While cream cheese is the more conventional choice, butter can certainly be a delicious alternative for an everything bagel. The richness of butter complements the savory flavors of the seasoning, and its melting quality can create a satisfyingly decadent experience. Salted butter is often preferred, as it enhances the existing savory notes of the everything bagel.
Consider toasting the bagel slightly before adding butter to allow it to melt evenly and soak into the nooks and crannies. You can also experiment with flavored butters, such as garlic herb butter or honey butter, to add a unique twist to your everything bagel experience. Just be mindful that butter might make the bagel greasier compared to cream cheese.
What are some savory toppings that pair well with an everything bagel?
Beyond cream cheese, the everything bagel lends itself well to a variety of savory toppings. Consider pairing it with sliced avocado for a creamy and healthy option, or add a fried egg for a protein-packed breakfast. Smoked salmon or pastrami are also excellent choices for a more substantial and flavorful meal.
For a more casual option, try spreading hummus or pesto on your everything bagel. You can also add sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, or red onion for a refreshing crunch. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations to find your perfect savory pairing, and consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Are there any sweet toppings that complement an everything bagel?
While everything bagels are primarily known for their savory flavor profile, they can surprisingly pair well with certain sweet toppings. The key is to find a balance that complements the salty and garlicky notes of the seasoning. A thin layer of honey or a drizzle of maple syrup can provide a subtle sweetness that enhances the overall flavor.
Consider adding a small amount of fig jam or a thin layer of almond butter for a more complex sweet and savory combination. You can also experiment with fresh fruits like sliced apples or pears, but be mindful of the texture contrast. Generally, avoid overly sweet toppings like frosting or excessive amounts of jam, as they can overpower the bagel’s savory flavor.
How can I make an everything bagel sandwich?
Making an everything bagel sandwich is a great way to create a satisfying and flavorful meal. Start by slicing your everything bagel in half and toasting it to your preference. Then, choose your favorite fillings, keeping in mind the savory flavor profile of the bagel. Smoked turkey, ham, or roast beef are excellent protein choices.
Add your favorite cheese, such as cheddar, Swiss, or provolone, and then layer on some fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomato, and onion. A light spread of mayonnaise, mustard, or a flavored aioli can add extra moisture and flavor. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different combinations to create your perfect everything bagel sandwich.
Can I make my own everything bagel seasoning?
Yes, absolutely! Making your own everything bagel seasoning is incredibly easy and allows you to customize the blend to your personal preferences. The basic ingredients typically include poppy seeds, sesame seeds (both white and black), dried minced garlic, dried minced onion, and coarse salt. These are readily available at most grocery stores.
To make your own seasoning, simply combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix well. You can adjust the ratios of each ingredient to suit your taste. Some people prefer more garlic, while others prefer more sesame seeds. Store your homemade everything bagel seasoning in an airtight container at room temperature for up to several months. You can then use it on bagels, avocado toast, or even roasted vegetables.