National Bagelfest Day on July 26th is a delightful celebration dedicated to the iconic kosher carbohydrate—the bagel! Toast one to perfection and generously add a schmear or two of your favorite spread. After all, a true celebration of #NationalBagelfestDay involves indulging in the deliciousness of a perfectly toasted bagel topped with your preferred toppings. It's a day to relish and honor the beloved bagel in all its doughy, flavorful glory!

History and Origin

National Bagelfest Day was established in 1986 by Murray Lender, owner of Lender’s Bagels, to celebrate the bagel and its cultural significance. The inaugural Bagelfest was held in Mattoon, Illinois, where Lender’s Bagels had a production facility. The event quickly gained popularity and has since become an annual tradition in Mattoon, attracting bagel lovers from all over.

What is a Bagel?

A bagel is a round bread product with a hole in the center, traditionally made from yeasted wheat dough that is boiled and then baked. The boiling step gives bagels their characteristic chewy texture and shiny crust. Bagels can be enjoyed plain or with various toppings and fillings.

Varieties of Bagels

Bagels come in a wide range of flavors and styles, including:

1. Plain: The classic bagel, perfect for any topping.
2. Sesame: Topped with sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch.
3. Everything: Covered with a mix of seeds, garlic, onion, and salt.
4. Cinnamon Raisin: Sweet bagel with cinnamon and raisins.
5. Poppy Seed: Topped with poppy seeds.
6. Whole Wheat: Made with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
7. Asiago: Topped with asiago cheese for a savory twist.

Popular Bagel Toppings and Fillings

• Cream Cheese: A classic topping, available in various flavors.
• Lox: Smoked salmon often paired with cream cheese, capers, and onions.
• Butter: Simple and delicious.
• Peanut Butter and Jelly: A sweet and savory combination.
• Egg and Cheese: Perfect for a breakfast sandwich.
• Hummus: A flavorful, healthy option.
• Vegetables: Sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and sprouts for a fresh touch.

How to Celebrate

National Bagelfest Day can be celebrated in a variety of delightful ways:

1. Eat a Bagel: Enjoy your favorite type of bagel with your preferred toppings. Try a new flavor or combination.
2. Host a Bagel Brunch: Invite friends and family over for a bagel-themed brunch with a variety of bagels, spreads, and toppings.
3. Visit a Bagel Shop: Support local bagel shops and bakeries by purchasing fresh bagels.
4. Make Bagels at Home: Try your hand at baking homemade bagels. There are many recipes available for different types of bagels.
5. Attend Bagelfest in Mattoon, Illinois: If you’re near Mattoon, join the festivities at the annual Bagelfest, which includes a parade, live music, and plenty of bagels.

Bagel Recipe

Here’s a simple recipe to make classic bagels at home:

Ingredients:

• 4 cups bread flour
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 2 teaspoons salt
• Toppings of your choice (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve sugar in warm water and add the yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Make Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Shape Bagels: Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center with your finger and gently stretch it to form a bagel shape.
5. Boil Bagels: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Boil each bagel for 1-2 minutes on each side. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a baking sheet.
6. Add Toppings: If desired, brush each bagel with an egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water) and sprinkle with toppings.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool on a wire rack before serving.

Fun Facts about Bagels

• Historical Roots: Bagels are believed to have originated in Poland in the 17th century, where they were a staple of Jewish cuisine.
• Boiling Step: The boiling step in bagel-making is crucial for creating the bagel’s dense, chewy texture.
• Bagel Belt: The northeastern United States, especially New York City, is known as the “Bagel Belt” due to its high concentration of bagel shops and popularity of bagels.

Responsible Enjoyment

• Dietary Considerations: For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free and whole grain bagels are available. Be mindful of the nutritional content and portion sizes.
• Support Local: Purchasing from local bagel shops and bakeries helps support small businesses and ensures you get fresh, high-quality bagels.

National Bagelfest Day is a perfect opportunity to indulge in the deliciousness of bagels and celebrate their cultural significance. Whether you’re enjoying a simple bagel with cream cheese, making them from scratch, or attending a Bagelfest event, this day is all about appreciating this versatile and beloved baked good.