Bagels — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips

Ideal bagels should have a dense, chewy interior with a glossy, slightly crisp crust. Look for bagels that are hand-shaped as this often denotes artisan quality. The aroma should be yeasty and inviting, promising a fresh, satisfying taste.

Steer clear of bagels that are too soft or lack a shiny crust, which can indicate they were not boiled prior to baking—a critical step for authentic texture. Bagels that appear overly dry or crumbly may have been overbaked or left out too long.

To keep bagels fresh, store them in a paper bag at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, place them in a plastic bag and freeze. Frozen bagels can be thawed and toasted for a fresh taste.

Refrigeration is not ideal for bagels, as it can make them stale more quickly. Avoid leaving them in humid environments, which can cause mold growth. Slicing bagels before freezing can make it easier to defrost and toast just what you need.

Bagels can last for 5-7 days at room temperature when stored in an airtight container or plastic bag. For longer storage, bagels can be frozen and kept for up to 6 months. Thaw at room temperature or toast directly from the freezer for the best results.

Leftover bagels can be enjoyed in several creative ways. Slice them and toast for a crisp bagel chip, perfect for dipping in hummus or cream cheese. You can also use bagel slices as a base for mini pizzas, topping them with sauce, cheese, and your favorite ingredients.

Turn leftover bagels into a bagel bread pudding by soaking them in a custard mixture and baking until golden. They can also be used to make bagel croutons for salads or soups. If you have plain bagels, try slicing and using them in a bagel breakfast sandwich, filled with eggs, bacon, and cheese. Bagels can also be repurposed into a savory or sweet bagel strata, layered with eggs, cheese, and vegetables or fruit.