The everything bagel. Just the name conjures images of poppy seeds, sesame seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt clinging tenaciously to a perfectly browned, slightly chewy, utterly irresistible ring of baked dough. But what happens after the bagel is toasted? That’s where the real culinary adventure begins. The everything bagel, with its already assertive flavors, serves as a fantastic canvas for a wide array of toppings, from the classic to the completely unexpected. This article explores the delicious world of everything bagel toppings, offering inspiration and ideas to elevate your bagel experience.
The Cream Cheese Conundrum: Classic Pairings and Beyond
Let’s face it: cream cheese is the undisputed champion of bagel toppings. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor are a natural complement to the savory crunch of an everything bagel. But even within the realm of cream cheese, there’s a universe of possibilities.
Plain Cream Cheese: The Simple Perfection
Sometimes, simplicity reigns supreme. A generous schmear of plain cream cheese allows the everything bagel’s inherent flavors to shine. The coolness of the cream cheese balances the assertive garlic and onion, creating a harmonious and satisfying bite. It’s a classic for a reason!
Flavored Cream Cheese: Adding Another Layer of Deliciousness
Venturing beyond plain cream cheese opens up exciting new flavor combinations. Consider these options:
- Scallion Cream Cheese: A timeless pairing. The mild onion flavor of the scallions complements the dried onion and garlic on the bagel, creating a cohesive and savory experience.
- Vegetable Cream Cheese: Packed with finely chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers, vegetable cream cheese adds a refreshing crunch and a hint of sweetness to your everything bagel.
- Lox Cream Cheese (or Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese): A luxurious indulgence. The smoky, salty flavor of lox blends seamlessly with the everything bagel, creating a decadent and unforgettable breakfast or brunch.
- Jalapeño Cream Cheese: For those who like a little heat, jalapeño cream cheese provides a spicy kick that cuts through the richness of the bagel and cream cheese.
- Chive Cream Cheese: Similar to scallion cream cheese, chive cream cheese offers a milder, more delicate onion flavor that pairs beautifully with the everything bagel’s savory profile.
- Maple Walnut Cream Cheese: For a sweeter option, maple walnut cream cheese offers a delightful contrast to the savory bagel. The nutty flavor of the walnuts and the sweet maple syrup create a balanced and satisfying treat.
The Cream Cheese Alternatives: Expanding Your Horizons
While cream cheese is a staple, there are plenty of other creamy options that work wonderfully on an everything bagel.
- Ricotta Cheese: Creamy, slightly sweet, and less tangy than cream cheese, ricotta is a great alternative for those who prefer a milder flavor.
- Mascarpone Cheese: Richer and more decadent than cream cheese, mascarpone adds a luxurious touch to your bagel.
- Greek Yogurt: A healthier option, plain Greek yogurt provides a tangy base that can be customized with herbs, spices, or even a drizzle of honey. Just be mindful of the consistency; thicker Greek yogurt works best.
- Hummus: While not technically a “cheese,” hummus provides a creamy and flavorful base that complements the savory flavors of the everything bagel. Try different varieties like roasted red pepper hummus or garlic hummus.
Beyond Cream Cheese: Savory Sensations
The everything bagel isn’t just for cream cheese aficionados. There’s a whole world of savory toppings waiting to be explored.
Eggs: The Breakfast Powerhouse
Adding eggs to an everything bagel transforms it into a complete and satisfying breakfast.
- Scrambled Eggs: A classic choice. Fluffy scrambled eggs provide a soft and comforting contrast to the crunchy bagel.
- Fried Egg: A perfectly fried egg with a runny yolk adds richness and flavor to your bagel. The yolk acts as a sauce, coating the other toppings and creating a delightful mess.
- Omelette: A thin omelette, folded and placed on the bagel, allows you to incorporate vegetables, cheese, and other fillings for a customized and hearty breakfast.
Avocado: The Creamy Green Goodness
Avocado is a healthy and delicious addition to an everything bagel. Its creamy texture and mild flavor complement the bagel’s savory notes.
- Sliced Avocado: Simple and satisfying. Thinly sliced avocado provides a smooth and creamy layer that enhances the bagel’s texture.
- Mashed Avocado: For a more spreadable option, mash the avocado with a fork and add a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Guacamole: Take it up a notch with guacamole. The addition of onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and jalapeños creates a flavorful and vibrant topping.
Smoked Salmon (Lox) and Its Companions
Smoked salmon and everything bagels are a match made in culinary heaven.
- The Classic Lox, Cream Cheese, Tomato, and Onion: A timeless combination. The smoky salmon, tangy cream cheese, juicy tomato, and sharp onion create a symphony of flavors and textures.
- Lox with Capers and Red Onion: The salty capers and pungent red onion add a briny and sharp contrast to the richness of the salmon and the savory bagel.
- Lox with Cucumber and Dill: Refreshing and light. The cool cucumber and fragrant dill provide a counterbalance to the smoky salmon and the assertive bagel.
Meats and Cheeses: Building a Hearty Sandwich
Transform your everything bagel into a satisfying sandwich with the addition of meats and cheeses.
- Bacon, Egg, and Cheese: A breakfast staple. Crispy bacon, a fried egg, and melted cheese create a hearty and flavorful sandwich.
- Ham and Swiss: A classic combination. Thinly sliced ham and melted Swiss cheese provide a savory and satisfying meal.
- Turkey and Cheddar: A lighter option. Sliced turkey breast and sharp cheddar cheese create a balanced and flavorful sandwich.
- Roast Beef and Provolone: A more robust option. Thinly sliced roast beef and melted provolone cheese offer a savory and satisfying experience.
Vegetables: Adding Freshness and Crunch
Adding vegetables to your everything bagel provides a boost of nutrients and adds a refreshing crunch.
- Tomato: Sliced tomatoes add a juicy sweetness and a burst of color to your bagel.
- Cucumber: Thinly sliced cucumber provides a refreshing crunch and a cooling effect.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a sharp and pungent flavor.
- Spinach or Arugula: These leafy greens add a healthy dose of vitamins and a slightly peppery flavor.
- Sprouts: Alfalfa sprouts or other sprouts add a delicate crunch and a nutty flavor.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant add a smoky sweetness and a hearty texture.
Sweet Sensations: Unexpected Delights on an Everything Bagel
While everything bagels are typically associated with savory toppings, don’t be afraid to experiment with sweet flavors. The salty and savory bagel can provide a surprising and delightful contrast to sweet toppings.
Peanut Butter and Jelly: A Childhood Favorite, Elevated
Believe it or not, peanut butter and jelly can be surprisingly delicious on an everything bagel. The salty and savory bagel provides a unique counterpoint to the sweet and nutty flavors.
Nutella: A Chocolate Hazelnut Dream
Nutella, the beloved chocolate hazelnut spread, is another unexpected but delicious topping for an everything bagel. The sweet and creamy Nutella balances the savory bagel, creating a satisfying and indulgent treat.
Honey and Ricotta: A Simple Sweet Treat
A drizzle of honey over creamy ricotta cheese creates a simple and elegant topping for an everything bagel. The sweetness of the honey complements the mild flavor of the ricotta and the savory bagel.
Fruit and Cream Cheese: A Refreshing Combination
Adding slices of fruit to cream cheese on an everything bagel creates a refreshing and healthy treat. Berries, bananas, and peaches are all excellent choices.
The Experimental Toppings: Pushing the Boundaries of Bagel Flavor
For the adventurous bagel lover, the possibilities are endless. Don’t be afraid to experiment with unusual and unexpected toppings.
Pesto: An Italian-Inspired Delight
Pesto, a flavorful sauce made from basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, can be a surprisingly delicious topping for an everything bagel. The savory pesto complements the bagel’s flavors, creating an Italian-inspired treat.
Tapenade: A Mediterranean Twist
Tapenade, a spread made from olives, capers, anchovies, and olive oil, adds a salty and savory Mediterranean twist to your everything bagel.
Spicy Kimchi: A Korean Kick
For those who like a little heat, try topping your everything bagel with spicy kimchi. The fermented cabbage adds a tangy, spicy, and umami-rich flavor that complements the bagel’s savory notes.
Everything Bagel Seasoning: Doubling Down on the Flavor
For the ultimate everything bagel experience, sprinkle extra everything bagel seasoning on top of your chosen toppings. This intensifies the flavors and adds an extra layer of crunch.
In conclusion, the perfect topping for an everything bagel is ultimately a matter of personal preference. Whether you prefer the classic simplicity of plain cream cheese or the adventurous combination of kimchi and cream cheese, the possibilities are endless. Don’t be afraid to experiment and discover your own favorite combinations. The everything bagel is a blank canvas, waiting to be transformed into a culinary masterpiece.
What are some traditional toppings for an everything bagel?
Cream cheese reigns supreme as the quintessential everything bagel topping. Its smooth, tangy flavor perfectly complements the savory blend of seeds and spices on the bagel. Lox, sliced smoked salmon, is another classic pairing, often accompanied by cream cheese, tomatoes, and red onion for a truly indulgent breakfast or brunch.
Beyond these staples, butter, both salted and unsalted, offers a simpler yet satisfying option, allowing the everything seasoning to shine through. Avocado, whether sliced or mashed, provides a healthy and creamy alternative, adding a touch of freshness to the savory bagel.
Can you suggest some non-dairy alternatives to cream cheese for an everything bagel?
For those seeking non-dairy options, there are several delicious alternatives to cream cheese that pair well with an everything bagel. Vegan cream cheese, made from ingredients like cashews, almonds, or soy, offers a similar texture and tangy flavor profile to traditional cream cheese. Many brands now offer plain and flavored varieties to cater to different preferences.
Hummus, a Middle Eastern dip made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, provides a savory and protein-rich option. Its earthy flavor complements the everything seasoning beautifully. Avocado, as mentioned earlier, is also a great dairy-free choice, adding creaminess and healthy fats.
What are some unexpected or unusual toppings that go well with an everything bagel?
While traditional toppings are popular, experimenting with unexpected flavors can lead to exciting culinary discoveries. Try topping your everything bagel with a fried egg and a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy and savory kick. The runny yolk adds richness, while the sriracha provides heat.
Alternatively, consider a schmear of pesto and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an Italian-inspired twist. The herby pesto complements the savory bagel, while the Parmesan adds a salty and nutty note. Don’t be afraid to get creative and explore different flavor combinations!
Are there any sweet toppings that complement the savory flavors of an everything bagel?
Surprisingly, sweet toppings can create a delightful contrast with the savory everything bagel. A thin layer of fig jam, paired with a sprinkle of crumbled goat cheese, offers a sweet and tangy combination that works surprisingly well. The sweetness of the fig jam balances the saltiness of the bagel.
Another option is a drizzle of honey, especially when combined with a salty topping like ricotta cheese or toasted walnuts. The honey provides a subtle sweetness that enhances the overall flavor profile. Just be mindful of the amount of sweet topping to avoid overwhelming the savory notes.
What vegetables pair well with an everything bagel?
Various vegetables enhance the flavor and texture of an everything bagel. Sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions are classic choices, adding freshness and crispness. Sprouts, like alfalfa or radish sprouts, provide a peppery and slightly bitter counterpoint to the savory bagel.
Roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant, offer a heartier and more substantial topping option. Their caramelized sweetness complements the everything seasoning beautifully. Pickled vegetables, like sauerkraut or kimchi, add a tangy and fermented element that can be surprisingly addictive.
What kind of protein toppings can be used on an everything bagel besides lox?
Beyond lox, numerous protein options can elevate your everything bagel experience. Sliced turkey or ham provides a leaner alternative to lox, offering a satisfying and protein-rich base. Consider adding a slice of cheese and some lettuce for a complete sandwich experience.
Scrambled eggs, either plain or with cheese and vegetables, are a great way to add protein and create a filling breakfast. Bacon or sausage, crumbled or sliced, adds a smoky and savory element that complements the everything seasoning perfectly.
How can I customize my own everything bagel seasoning blend?
Creating your own everything bagel seasoning blend allows for complete customization to suit your taste preferences. The base typically consists of dried minced onion, dried garlic, sesame seeds (both white and black), poppy seeds, and salt. Adjust the ratios of each ingredient to your liking.
For a spicier blend, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. To enhance the savory notes, consider including dried dill or caraway seeds. Experiment with different combinations until you find the perfect blend for your palate. Store the seasoning in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.