Everything Bagel Seasoning
Transform any dish into an everything bagel experience with this irresistible seasoning blend! This popular seasoning has taken the culinary world by storm, combining the classic flavors of everything bagels into a versatile spice mix that can be sprinkled on virtually anything.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons white sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon dried minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon dried minced onion
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt
Instructions
Basic Preparation
Combine ingredients: Mix all ingredients together in a small bowl until evenly distributed.
Store properly: Transfer to an airtight container or spice jar.
Label and store: Mark your container and store in a cool, dry place.
Toasting Option (Recommended)
Heat pan: Warm a dry skillet over medium-low heat.
Toast seeds: Add sesame seeds and poppy seeds to the pan, stirring frequently for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
Cool completely: Let toasted seeds cool to room temperature.
Mix all ingredients: Combine toasted seeds with garlic, onion, and salt.
Creative Uses for Everything Bagel Seasoning
Breakfast Applications
- Sprinkle on avocado toast
- Top scrambled eggs or omelets
- Add to cream cheese for bagels
- Season breakfast potatoes
- Garnish yogurt and granola bowls
Snacks and Appetizers
- Rim cocktail glasses for Bloody Marys
- Season popcorn for movie night
- Top hummus or other dips
- Sprinkle on pretzels before baking
- Add to cheese and crackers
Main Dishes
- Season roasted chicken or salmon
- Top pizza before baking
- Add to salad dressings
- Season roasted vegetables
- Sprinkle on flatbread
Creative Applications
- Mix into burger patties
- Top mac and cheese
- Season french fries
- Add to homemade bread dough
- Garnish soups
Recipe Variations
Spicy Everything Seasoning
- Add 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Include 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder for extra kick
- Perfect for those who like heat
Herb-Enhanced Version
- Add 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Include 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
- Creates a more herbaceous flavor profile
Nut-Free Alternative
- Replace sesame seeds with sunflower seeds
- Use hemp hearts for different texture
- Maintains the crunch without tree nuts
Extra Garlicky
- Double the dried garlic
- Add 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- For serious garlic lovers
Storage and Freshness
Proper Storage
- Keep in airtight container
- Store in cool, dry place
- Away from direct light
- Stays fresh for 6-12 months
Freshness Indicators
- Seeds should be crisp, not soft
- Vibrant colors and strong aroma
- No signs of moisture or clumping
Nutritional Benefits
Sesame Seeds
- Rich in healthy fats and protein
- Good source of calcium and magnesium
- Contains lignans with antioxidant properties
Poppy Seeds
- High in healthy fats
- Good source of fiber
- Contains minerals like calcium and phosphorus
Garlic and Onion
- Natural antimicrobial properties
- May support heart health
- Add flavor without calories
The Everything Bagel Story
The everything bagel was invented in 1980 by David Gussin, a 17-year-old employee at a bagel shop in Queens, New York. He combined all the toppings from different bagel varieties to create the "everything" bagel, which became an instant hit and eventually inspired this seasoning blend.
Make-Ahead Tips
Bulk Preparation
- Make large batches for gift giving
- Store in small jars for easy use
- Toast seeds in larger quantities for efficiency
Gift Ideas
- Package in small mason jars
- Include recipe cards with serving suggestions
- Perfect for food-loving friends
Pairing Suggestions
Complementary Flavors
- Cream cheese and lox
- Avocado and lime
- Olive oil and balsamic vinegar
- Butter and herbs
Texture Combinations
- Creamy foods for contrast
- Crunchy vegetables
- Soft cheeses
- Crusty breads
Serving Suggestions by Meal
Breakfast
- Everything bagel with cream cheese
- Avocado toast with sliced tomato
- Greek yogurt with berries
- Scrambled eggs with chives
Lunch
- Salad with everything seasoning dressing
- Hummus and veggie wrap
- Soup garnish
- Grilled cheese sandwich
Dinner
- Roasted salmon with vegetables
- Chicken with herb crust
- Roasted potato wedges
- Green salad topping
Snacks
- Seasoned popcorn
- Crackers with cheese
- Vegetable chips
- Mixed nuts
Troubleshooting
Common Issues
- Clumping: Store with rice packet to absorb moisture
- Bland flavor: Toast seeds for more intensity
- Too salty: Reduce salt next time or dilute with more seeds
Storage Problems
- Keep away from humidity
- Use desiccant packets if needed
- Check container seals regularly
Conclusion
Everything bagel seasoning is one of the most versatile spice blends you can make at home. It's incredibly easy to prepare, much more economical than store-bought versions, and adds that addictive everything bagel flavor to countless dishes. Once you start using it, you'll find yourself sprinkling it on everything from morning eggs to evening salmon. The combination of nutty sesame seeds, aromatic garlic and onion, and flaky salt creates a perfect balance that enhances rather than overwhelms your food.
