Everything Bagel Seasoning is a crunchy and savory American topping famously used to sprinkle over bagels. Finding this seasoning ready-made can sometimes prove frustratingly difficult in places like Australia, and when it is available on shelves, it is frequently far too heavy on salt. Crafting your own batch at home offers a simple solution that lets you control the exact balance of flavors.
Essential Ingredients for the Seasoning
Creating this popular spice blend requires just a few pantry staples measured out precisely. The recipe calls for 4 teaspoons of unroasted white sesame seeds, 2 teaspoons of black sesame seeds, 1.5 teaspoons of poppy seeds, 1.75 teaspoons of onion flakes or granules, 1.75 teaspoons of garlic flakes or granules, and 1 teaspoon of sea salt flakes. Fine table salt is not recommended because it is far too powdery, though cooking salt or kosher salt can be substituted by halving the amount.
Understanding the Key Components
The sesame seeds should remain untoasted because the blend was originally designed to go onto bagels prior to baking, and pre-toasted seeds would easily burn and turn bitter in the oven. However, anyone preparing this blend strictly as a finishing sprinkle for non-baked items can freely use toasted sesame seeds for a nuttier aroma. The dried onion and garlic flakes provide a savory sweetness and robust punch without overpowering the blend, and they should never be confused with fine powders. Sea salt flakes provide wonderful bursts of saltiness and texture that disperse evenly through the mix.
Preparation and Storage Guidelines
Putting the mixture together takes barely five minutes and requires no complex equipment. Simply combine all the measured ingredients thoroughly in a bowl. Store the final blend inside a tightly sealed airtight container kept in the pantry, where it will remain fresh and flavorful for 6 to 8 weeks. The recipe yields a total of 12 teaspoons or 4 tablespoons, which is precisely the amount needed to top 8 homemade bagels.
Versatile Ways to Use Your Mix
While designed for breads before baking, this versatile condiment serves wonderfully as a finishing touch for everyday meals. Sprinkle it directly over morning scrambled eggs, avocado toast, fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of hummus. It delivers an instant upgrade of garlicky, crunchy, and salty goodness to almost any savory dish.
