The aroma of freshly baked bagels dances in the air, a comforting scent that always brings a smile in-between my ears. Today, January 15th, is National Bagel Day, and bagels like pizza hold a special place in many people's hearts. It's not just the taste – the chewy texture, the satisfying crunch of the crust, it's the versatility that allows for endless flavor combinations.
National Bagel Day, celebrated annually on January 15th, is dedicated to honoring the rich history of the bagel, a beloved bread product with origins shrouded in mystery.
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Lox and Cream Cheese Bagel at LaVita Coffee
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An assortment of bagels at LaVita Coffee
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A Bit of Bagel History
While the exact origins remain debated, one prominent theory suggests bagels emerged from Jewish communities in Poland. Another compelling claim traces their roots to pretzel dough brought to Poland by German migrants. The Polish Jews adapted this bread, adding a distinctive hole and naming it "obwarzanek."
Bagels vs. Bread: A Nutritional Comparison
In terms of calories, bagels generally have a higher calorie count than a single slice of bread. However, bagels often contain more fiber, which can contribute to decreased hunger and potentially reduce snacking throughout the day.
The Unique Boiling Process
A key factor distinguishing bagels is their unique preparation process. Unlike most breads, bagels are boiled in water for 30 to 60 seconds before baking. This boiling step gelatinizes the starch on the exterior, creating a protective barrier that contributes to the bagel's signature chewy texture and crisp crust.
The Mystery of the Partial Cut
The iconic half-cut of the bagel serves a practical purpose. This partial slice allows the bagel to retain freshness longer than a completely sliced bagel while still providing a convenient entry point for toppings.
My Personal Bagel Recommendation
Houston has many great places for bagels. You can't go wrong with one of your local Starbucks bagels or the many bagel varieties found at your local HEB. One of my favorite places to savor a fresh bagel is at Washington Patio at the intersection of Burger Vibe and LaVita Coffee. My personal preference leans towards the classic cinnamon raisin bagel with cream cheese, though I'm always tempted by the irresistible allure of a lox and cream cheese bagel.
Why are the bagels at Washington Patio exactly like a bagel you would eat in NYC? Probably because they come from NYC and shipped directly to Texas. I reached out to Alex Moghaddam from Washington Patio (Burger Vibe/LaVita Coffee) and this is what he had to share about why they have the best bagels in Houston:
"All of the bagels are vegan and halal and kosher and they do not sacrifice in flavor in order to do that, I am one of the biggest supporters of providing healthy food without sacrificing the flavor and it appears that the bagels from Just Bagels do exactly that, so that is why we chose them over many other options and so far no complaints!"
Happy National Bagel Day!
Whether you prefer it plain, with cream cheese, or loaded with your favorite toppings, I encourage you to celebrate National Bagel Day by indulging in this iconic culinary creation.