National Bagel Day

 

Celebrated on January 15th each year, National Bagel Day is a special occasion for bagel lovers far and wide. It is a day to honor the supremely delectable doughy snack, with many specials and dedicated events in local bakeries and eateries to honor the circular wonder.

 

Bagels have been part of American culture for more than 400 years. Brought over from Eastern Europe, the popularity of the bagel has become international. Originally part of Jewish culture and served as Sabbath breakfast, bagels have evolved from a traditional symbol to a mainstream global staple.

 

Bagels come in many shapes, sizes, and flavors. The most classic is the plain bagel, however, some of the favorite flavors include everything, onion, sesame, poppyseed, cinnamon-raisin, whole wheat, and blueberry. It is a versatile food that can easily be enjoyed in any setting – breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

 

A bagel’s taste and texture are distinct. It has a chewy, dense dough providing a good base for any spread or topping. You can enjoy it plain or dress it up with schmear, smoked salmon, or jam.

 

Eating a bagel is also a nutritional and calorie-friendly choice. Bagels are low in fat, and can contain a good source of dietary fiber; some as high as five grams per serving. Studies have also reported that bagel consumption could help to decrease cholesterol.

 

The bagel is not only enjoyed in North America, it has spread around the world. Everywhere from Australia to Argentina, you can find these delicious snacks. Every country has its own version of the beloved bagel.

 

On National Bagel Day, people come together to enjoy these amazing treats in all their forms. From an eclectic array of quality ingredients and toppings to timeless noshes, the possibilities are endless. Some of the cities around the U.S. even host bagel-inspired feasts and celebrations.

 

Bakeries tend to join in on the day’s festivities by offering free or discounted bagels as a way of saying thank you to their customers. Some even rent out their store fronts and turn into a full-on bagel party. Larger bakeries often supply to small businesses and cafes, meaning that all over, bagels are available to be enjoyed.

 

Bakeries are not the only bagel-friendly business. Many restaurants, food trucks, and coffee shops include freshly-made bagels in their menus, with plenty of creative recipes for people to choose from. For example, a classic cream cheese with lox and chopped onions, lox and cream cheese roll-ups, bagel sandwiches, and even vegan and low-carb options now fit into mainstream menus.

 

Whether being served in a classic manner or as part of a delectable invention, eating a bagel, especially on National Bagel Day, is a memorable experience.

 

The best way to celebrate this day is to enjoy a bagel with your loved ones. You could even make a family outing out of it – to your nearest bakery or a chain restaurant. Since it is celebrated in mid-January, a bagel run around the North Pole could be a fun way to celebrate National Bagel Day!

 

So mark the special occasion, and visit a bagel shop in your neighborhood to commemorate National Bagel Day. Sit down and enjoy the iconic snack, piling it high with cream cheese, lox and other fixings. Or just have it plain – it’s still unbelievably good!

 

National Bagel Day is a great opportunity to gather with friends and family, and of course, to try out some delicious bagels! So go ahead, bake or buy a bagel, enjoy and celebrate!