Everything Bagel Seasoning
Description
Everything Bagel Seasoning is a delightful blend of simple ingredients that together create a complex symphony of flavors. The mix typically includes poppy seeds, toasted sesame seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and sea salt. Visually, it's a medley of contrasting colors and shapes, with the tiny, round poppy and sesame seeds interspersed with the irregular, chunky bits of garlic and onion, all speckled with coarse grains of sea salt. The texture is crunchy and the flavor profile is a savory mix of nutty, garlicky, oniony, and slightly salty notes. What sets this seasoning apart is its ability to replicate the iconic taste of an everything bagel without the bagel itself!
Primary Uses
Everything Bagel Seasoning is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes. It can be sprinkled over avocado toast, tossed into salads, incorporated into homemade breads, or used as a coating for proteins like chicken or tofu. It's also a popular topping for bagels and cream cheese, of course. In recent years, it has become a trendy addition to breakfast foods, snacks, and even cocktails. Aside from its culinary uses, this seasoning also holds a special place in the heart of New Yorkers, symbolizing the city's rich bagel culture.
History
The history of Everything Bagel Seasoning is deeply intertwined with that of the everything bagel itself. The bagel, a staple of Jewish cuisine, was brought to the United States by Polish immigrants in the late 19th century. The everything variety, however, didn't appear until the 1980s, when David Gussin, a teenager working at a bagel shop in Queens, New York, came up with the idea of using the leftover seeds and spices at the bottom of the oven to create a new type of bagel. The popularity of the everything bagel soared, and it wasn't long before the seasoning mix itself became a standalone product. Today, it's a beloved ingredient in kitchens across America and beyond.
Nutritional Information
Everything Bagel Seasoning is a low-calorie way to add a burst of flavor to your dishes. The sesame seeds and poppy seeds contribute fiber, protein, and a range of essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron. Meanwhile, the dried garlic and onion offer a modest amount of vitamin C. However, the seasoning can be high in sodium due to the sea salt, so it should be used in moderation, especially by those watching their salt intake. Compared to other seasonings, Everything Bagel Seasoning offers a unique blend of flavors and nutrients, making it a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal.