Everything But the Bagel seasoning (often abbreviated as “EBTB”) has transcended its humble beginnings as a topping for bagels to become a pantry staple. Its savory, crunchy, and aromatic blend has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of home cooks and professional chefs alike. This article explores the myriad ways to incorporate EBTB seasoning into your everyday cooking, moving beyond the traditional bagel and unlocking a world of flavor possibilities.
Understanding the Allure of Everything But the Bagel Seasoning
What exactly makes this seasoning so irresistible? It’s the harmonious combination of simple yet impactful ingredients: sesame seeds (both white and black), poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering the signature taste and texture that EBTB is known for.
The sesame seeds contribute a nutty, slightly sweet base, while the poppy seeds add a subtle earthy flavor and a delightful pop of texture. Dried garlic and onion provide that savory, pungent depth that awakens the palate. Finally, salt balances all the flavors and enhances the overall taste profile.
The beauty of EBTB seasoning lies in its versatility. It’s not overpowering, yet it’s bold enough to make a statement. It adds texture and visual appeal to dishes, making them more exciting and inviting.
Eggs: A Breakfast Staple Elevated
One of the easiest and most popular ways to use EBTB seasoning is on eggs. Whether you prefer scrambled, fried, poached, or hard-boiled, a sprinkle of EBTB seasoning can transform a simple egg dish into something special.
For scrambled eggs, whisk in a teaspoon of EBTB seasoning before cooking. This infuses the eggs with flavor from the inside out. For fried eggs, sprinkle the seasoning on top after cooking for a delightful textural contrast. Poached eggs benefit from a generous dusting of EBTB seasoning, adding a savory element to the richness of the yolk. Hard-boiled eggs become a satisfying snack with a sprinkle of EBTB seasoning and a dash of hot sauce.
Egg-based dishes like omelets and frittatas also benefit from the addition of EBTB seasoning. Incorporate it into the egg mixture or sprinkle it on top before baking for an extra layer of flavor.
Avocado Toast: The Perfect Pairing
Avocado toast has become a breakfast and brunch staple, and EBTB seasoning is its perfect partner. The creamy, mild flavor of avocado is beautifully complemented by the savory, crunchy notes of the seasoning.
Simply mash avocado on toast (whole wheat, sourdough, or multigrain all work well), drizzle with a little olive oil, and sprinkle generously with EBTB seasoning. For an extra touch, add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
The combination of textures and flavors makes avocado toast with EBTB seasoning a satisfying and nutritious meal. It’s a quick and easy way to start your day or enjoy a light lunch.
Vegetables: Roasted, Grilled, and Beyond
EBTB seasoning is a fantastic way to add flavor and texture to vegetables. It works well with a wide variety of vegetables, from root vegetables like potatoes and carrots to cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower.
Roasted vegetables are particularly delicious with EBTB seasoning. Toss vegetables with olive oil and EBTB seasoning before roasting for a flavorful and visually appealing side dish. Grilled vegetables also benefit from a sprinkle of EBTB seasoning. Brush vegetables with olive oil and season with EBTB before grilling for a smoky, savory treat.
Even raw vegetables can be enhanced with EBTB seasoning. Sprinkle it on cucumber slices, carrot sticks, or bell pepper strips for a flavorful snack.
Snacks: Elevating Everyday Bites
Snacks are another area where EBTB seasoning can shine. It can transform ordinary snacks into something more exciting and satisfying.
Popcorn is a classic snack that benefits from a sprinkle of EBTB seasoning. Toss freshly popped popcorn with melted butter and EBTB seasoning for a savory and addictive treat. Cottage cheese becomes a more interesting snack with a generous sprinkle of EBTB seasoning. The creamy, mild flavor of cottage cheese is a perfect canvas for the savory seasoning. Hummus is another snack that pairs well with EBTB seasoning. Drizzle hummus with olive oil and sprinkle with EBTB seasoning for a flavorful and visually appealing appetizer.
Even simple snacks like crackers and cheese can be elevated with a sprinkle of EBTB seasoning. The seasoning adds a layer of flavor and texture that takes these snacks from ordinary to extraordinary.
Meat and Poultry: A Savory Crust
EBTB seasoning isn’t just for vegetarian dishes. It can also be used to add flavor and texture to meat and poultry.
Chicken breasts can be coated with EBTB seasoning before baking or grilling. This creates a flavorful crust that seals in the moisture and adds a delicious savory element. Salmon fillets are also delicious with EBTB seasoning. Sprinkle the seasoning on top of the salmon before baking or pan-frying for a crispy, flavorful skin.
Even ground meat can benefit from the addition of EBTB seasoning. Mix the seasoning into ground beef or turkey before making burgers or meatloaf for an extra layer of flavor.
Dips and Spreads: Adding a Zesty Kick
Dips and spreads are another area where EBTB seasoning can shine. It can add a zesty kick to everything from cream cheese to yogurt-based dips.
Cream cheese becomes a more exciting spread with a generous sprinkle of EBTB seasoning. Serve it with bagels, crackers, or vegetables for a delicious and easy appetizer. Yogurt-based dips are also delicious with EBTB seasoning. Mix the seasoning into plain yogurt with a little lemon juice and dill for a flavorful and refreshing dip.
Guacamole can be elevated with a sprinkle of EBTB seasoning. The seasoning adds a savory element that complements the creamy avocado and bright lime juice.
Soups and Salads: A Finishing Touch
EBTB seasoning can also be used as a finishing touch for soups and salads. It adds a layer of flavor and texture that elevates these dishes.
Sprinkle EBTB seasoning on top of creamy soups like tomato soup or butternut squash soup for a savory and textural contrast. Add EBTB seasoning to salads for a flavorful and visually appealing garnish. It works especially well with salads that contain avocado, tomatoes, or cucumbers.
The seasoning can also be used to make salad dressings. Mix EBTB seasoning with olive oil, vinegar, and a little honey for a simple and flavorful vinaigrette.
Baking: A Surprising Addition
While not as common, EBTB seasoning can even be used in baking. It adds a savory element to breads, crackers, and even some desserts.
Add EBTB seasoning to the dough when making homemade bread or rolls for a savory and aromatic treat. Sprinkle EBTB seasoning on top of crackers before baking for a flavorful and crunchy snack. Surprisingly, EBTB seasoning can also be used in some desserts. Add a pinch to sweet potato pie or cornbread for a unique and unexpected flavor.
Homemade Everything But the Bagel Seasoning
While commercially available EBTB seasoning is readily available, it’s also incredibly easy to make your own at home. This allows you to customize the blend to your liking and ensure that you’re using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
To make your own EBTB seasoning, simply combine equal parts of the following ingredients: sesame seeds (both white and black), poppy seeds, dried minced garlic, dried minced onion, and flaky sea salt. Adjust the ratios to your liking.
Store your homemade EBTB seasoning in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. It will keep for several months.
Beyond the Obvious: Creative Uses
Beyond the applications discussed above, EBTB seasoning can be used in a variety of other creative ways.
Sprinkle it on pasta dishes for a savory and textural boost. Use it to rim cocktail glasses for a unique and flavorful twist. Add it to homemade potato chips or french fries for a savory seasoning. Mix it into breadcrumbs for a flavorful coating for chicken or fish.
The possibilities are endless. Don’t be afraid to experiment and discover new ways to incorporate EBTB seasoning into your cooking.
Storage and Shelf Life
Proper storage is essential for maintaining the flavor and freshness of EBTB seasoning. Store it in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place. Avoid storing it near heat or moisture, as this can cause the seasoning to lose its potency and become clumpy.
When stored properly, EBTB seasoning can last for several months. However, it’s best to use it within six months for optimal flavor.
Everything But the Bagel Seasoning: A Pantry Essential
Everything But the Bagel seasoning has earned its place as a pantry essential. Its versatile flavor profile and crunchy texture make it a welcome addition to a wide variety of dishes. From eggs and avocado toast to roasted vegetables and meat dishes, EBTB seasoning can elevate your cooking and add a touch of savory deliciousness to your meals. So, go ahead and experiment – you might just discover your new favorite way to use this incredible seasoning!
What exactly is Everything But the Bagel Seasoning, and what are its primary ingredients?
Everything But the Bagel Seasoning is a popular spice blend designed to mimic the flavors found on an everything bagel. It’s a convenient way to add a savory, textured crunch to a variety of dishes beyond just bagels.
The typical ingredients include sesame seeds (both white and black), dried garlic flakes, dried onion flakes, poppy seeds, and salt. The combination of these ingredients provides a balanced flavor profile of nutty, savory, and slightly pungent notes, making it a versatile seasoning.
Is Everything But the Bagel Seasoning healthy? Are there any nutritional considerations?
The healthfulness of Everything But the Bagel Seasoning depends largely on how it is used and the overall diet. The individual ingredients are generally considered healthy, offering small amounts of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. However, it is relatively high in sodium due to the salt content.
From a nutritional standpoint, the seasoning is low in calories, fat, and carbohydrates. The main consideration is the sodium content, which can be a concern for individuals watching their salt intake. Moderation is key, and those with sodium restrictions should be mindful of serving sizes and consider using a low-sodium version if available.
Beyond bagels, what are some creative ways to use Everything But the Bagel Seasoning in cooking?
Everything But the Bagel Seasoning is incredibly versatile and can be used to enhance the flavor of many dishes. It works wonderfully sprinkled on avocado toast, scrambled eggs, or even roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts. Its texture and flavor also complement creamy dips, such as hummus or cream cheese.
Consider using it as a crust for chicken or fish before baking or pan-frying. You can also mix it into bread dough or sprinkle it on top of pizza for an extra layer of savory flavor. Its applications are truly limited only by your imagination, so experiment and discover your favorite uses.
Can I make my own Everything But the Bagel Seasoning at home? What are the ratios of ingredients I should use?
Yes, making your own Everything But the Bagel Seasoning at home is easy and allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. This ensures you have fresh seasoning on hand and can adjust the salt content. It also saves you money in the long run.
A good starting point for the ingredient ratios is: 3 tablespoons sesame seeds (1.5 white, 1.5 black), 2 tablespoons dried minced garlic, 2 tablespoons dried minced onion, 2 tablespoons poppy seeds, and 1 tablespoon coarse salt. Adjust the amounts to suit your taste preferences, perhaps adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
How should I store Everything But the Bagel Seasoning to maintain its freshness and flavor?
Proper storage is essential for maintaining the freshness and flavor of Everything But the Bagel Seasoning. Light, heat, and moisture can degrade the quality of the dried spices, causing them to lose their potency over time. Exposure to air will cause it to dry out.
Store the seasoning in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place, such as a pantry or spice cabinet. Avoid storing it near the stove or in direct sunlight, as these conditions can accelerate the loss of flavor. Properly stored, it should maintain its quality for several months.
Are there any variations of Everything But the Bagel Seasoning available, such as low-sodium or spicy versions?
Yes, various versions of Everything But the Bagel Seasoning cater to different dietary needs and preferences. Many brands offer low-sodium options for those watching their salt intake, replacing some of the salt with other flavor enhancers. Look for products specifically labeled “low-sodium.”
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, spicy variations incorporate ingredients like red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or chili powder. These add another dimension of flavor to the seasoning, making it even more versatile. Some versions also include dried dill for a more herbaceous profile.
Where can I purchase Everything But the Bagel Seasoning? Is it widely available?
Everything But the Bagel Seasoning is now widely available due to its popularity. You can typically find it in the spice aisle of most major grocery stores, often near other dried herbs and spices. Trader Joe’s is famously known for their version which sparked popularity.
Online retailers like Amazon and specialty spice shops also carry a wide selection of brands and variations. Local farmers’ markets and gourmet food stores may also offer unique or handcrafted versions of the seasoning. The widespread availability makes it easy to experiment with and enjoy this flavorful blend.