To recreate this recipe, you only need flour, water, salt, and yeast, then finish with a molasses glaze and roasted sesame seeds for a rich aroma and appealing texture. These bagels are perfect for breakfast with cream cheese, as a sandwich base for lunch, or sliced and served alongside soups, salads, and dips. They also make an excellent appetizer for gatherings because they are easy to share and pair well with many toppings.
What are Savory Bagels?
Bagels have a fascinating history that stretches back centuries, with their origins often connected to Jewish communities in Eastern Europe, particularly Poland. The word “bagel” is believed to come from the Yiddish word “beygl”, which refers to the ring-shaped bread that became popular among bakers in the 17th century. Their unique shape was not just for appearance; the hole in the center made them easier to transport because bakers could thread them onto sticks or strings for selling.
Traditionally, bagels were boiled before baking, which gave them their famous chewy texture and firm crust. This recipe takes inspiration from that classic style while adding a simpler approach with a molasses and sesame coating that gives the bagels a deep color and nutty finish.
Also, bagels were once considered a special occasion food, but today they have become a global favorite enjoyed in countless variations.
Pro Tips for The Best Savory Bagels
- Too much flour can make the bagels dense, while too little can leave the dough difficult to shape. Measuring by weight gives the most reliable result.
- Try to make each piece of dough the same size so they bake at the same rate. Uniform shapes also create a more professional appearance.
- Toast the sesame seeds before using them. Roasting enhances their nutty flavor and gives the finished bagels a more noticeable aroma.
- While sesame seeds are classic, you can also try poppy seeds, onion flakes, garlic seasoning, or mixed seeds for different flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make These Bagels Without Sesame Seeds?
Yes, sesame seeds can be replaced or removed depending on your preference. The molasses coating will still add flavor and color even without toppings. You can replace sesame seeds with other toppings such as sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, dried herbs, or seasoning blends.
How Do I Know When the Bagels Are Fully Baked?
A properly baked bagel should have a golden exterior and feel firm when gently tapped. The surface should not look pale or doughy. You can also check the bottom of the bagels, which should have a lightly browned appearance.
Can I Add Other Flavors to the Dough?
Absolutely. Savory bagels are easy to customize with additional ingredients. You can mix herbs, spices, dried onions, garlic powder, or grated cheese into the dough. Adding flavors directly into the dough creates a more noticeable taste throughout each bite.
Are Homemade Bagels Healthier Than Store-Bought Ones?
Homemade bagels allow you to control the ingredients, including salt levels, toppings, and additives. Store-bought versions may contain preservatives or extra ingredients to extend shelf life, while homemade ones are made fresh.
How to Store Any Leftover Savory Bagels
Keep them covered before storing them to prevent them from drying out. They can be kept at room temperature for a couple of days, or you can also freeze them. Freezing is a great way to enjoy homemade bagels later without preparing a fresh batch every time.
Ingredients
How to Make Savory Sesame Bagels
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Add the water and dry yeast to a large bowl and whisk until the yeast dissolves. Mix in the flour, and once the mixture begins coming together, add the salt and continue mixing. When the dough starts forming, knead with your hands until it becomes smooth. Cover the bowl with cling film and allow the dough to rise for 30 minutes.
Add the water and dry yeast to a large bowl and whisk until the yeast dissolves. Mix in the flour, and once the mixture begins coming together, add the salt and continue mixing. When the dough starts forming, knead with your hands until it becomes smooth. Cover the bowl with cling film and allow the dough to rise for 30 minutes.
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While the dough rests, combine the molasses and water in a small bowl.
While the dough rests, combine the molasses and water in a small bowl.
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After the dough has rested, divide it into six portions and shape each piece into a ball.
After the dough has rested, divide it into six portions and shape each piece into a ball.
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Roll each dough ball into a thin strip and form the classic bagel ring shape.
Roll each dough ball into a thin strip and form the classic bagel ring shape.
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Dip each shaped bagel into the molasses and water mixture.
Dip each shaped bagel into the molasses and water mixture.
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Coat them with roasted sesame seeds.
Coat them with roasted sesame seeds.
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Place the coated bagels onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 190°C (374°F) for 20-25 minutes until golden.
Place the coated bagels onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 190°C (374°F) for 20-25 minutes until golden.
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Arrange the freshly baked savory bagels on a serving dish and serve warm. Enjoy!
Arrange the freshly baked savory bagels on a serving dish and serve warm. Enjoy!
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