Unearthing the Magic of the Multigrain Bagel

Often overshadowed by more popular varieties, the multigrain bagel deserves recognition for its delightful blend of flavors and textures.

A mix of wholesome grains that come together in a symphony of taste — creating a bagel that’s not only scrumptious but also brimming with nutritional benefits.

Let’s talk about the multigrain bagel today and see how to make our own.

Grains Galore

Multigrain bagels celebrate the harmonious convergence of diverse grains, each imparting their own unique flavors and textures to create a truly one-of-a-kind culinary delight. With a rich tapestry of whole wheat, oats, barley, rye, flaxseed, sunflower seeds, and a myriad of other nutritious seeds and grains, the multigrain bagel stands in a league of its own.

The brilliance of the multigrain bagel lies in its ability to showcase the best qualities of each grain, creating an extraordinary flavor profile that captivates the taste buds with each bite. The earthy, nutty notes from the whole wheat and rye are beautifully complemented by the subtle sweetness of oats and the crunchy texture of sunflower seeds.

This stunning ensemble of grains and seeds not only elevates the taste experience but also turns the multigrain bagel into a veritable treasure trove of nutrients. Each component brings its own set of vitamins, minerals, and health benefits to the table, creating a powerhouse of nutrition that far surpasses the humble plain bagel.

So, when you indulge in a multigrain bagel, you’re not only treating your palate to a delightful medley of flavors and textures, but you’re also nourishing your body with a diverse array of essential nutrients. In essence, the multigrain bagel is the ultimate marriage of taste and health, proving that sometimes, you truly can have the best of both worlds.

As a true nutritional powerhouse, the multigrain bagel delivers an array of essential vitamins and minerals. Rich in B vitamins, iron, magnesium, and zinc, this bagel variety promotes healthy brain function, supports the immune system, and fosters strong bones.

Fiber for Digestive Delight

Another key benefit of multigrain bagels is their high fiber content. Comprised of both soluble and insoluble fiber, these bagels support healthy digestion, regulate blood sugar levels, and aid in weight management by keeping you feeling full for longer periods.

Boosting Heart Health

The multigrain bagel’s heart-healthy benefits cannot be overstated. Thanks to its fiber content and the presence of healthy fats from seeds like flaxseed and sunflower, this bagel can help lower bad cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and promote cardiovascular health.

An Antioxidant Treasure Trove

Multigrain bagels also contain an abundance of antioxidants, which protect the body from the damaging effects of free radicals. These antioxidants can help reduce inflammation, support the immune system, and contribute to overall well-being.

The Art of Topping

To truly elevate the multigrain bagel experience, you’ll want to pair it with nutritious toppings that further boost its health benefits. Think avocado, hummus, or smoked salmon which provide healthy fats, protein and a range of essential nutrients.

There’s no denying that the multigrain bagel is a breakfast all-star. Its delightful mix of flavors, textures, and nutrients sets it apart from other bagel varieties, making it a delicious and healthy choice for starting your day.

Multigrain Bagel Recipe

Yields: 12 bagels

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups warm water (around 110°F or 45°C)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 2 cups bread flour
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup rye flour
• 1/4 cup flaxseed meal
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
• 1/4 cup barley flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 large egg white, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
• Additional seeds or grains (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and honey. Stir until the honey dissolves. Sprinkle yeast over the water and honey mixture, and let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together whole wheat flour, bread flour, rolled oats, rye flour, flaxseed meal, sunflower seeds, barley flour, and salt.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the yeast mixture, stirring until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes, adding more flour as needed to prevent sticking, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Lightly coat a large bowl with vegetable oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning it to coat with oil. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball, then poke a hole in the center using your finger. Gently stretch and shape the dough to form a bagel shape.
7. Place the shaped bagels on the prepared baking sheets. Cover with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 10 minutes.
8. In a large pot, bring 3 quarts of water to a boil. Carefully lower the bagels, a few at a time, into the boiling water. Boil for 1 minute on each side.
9. Remove the boiled bagels with a slotted spoon, allowing excess water to drain, and place them back on the baking sheets. Brush the tops of the bagels with the beaten egg white, and sprinkle with additional seeds or grains if desired.
10. Bake the bagels for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crusty. Let them cool on a wire rack before enjoying your delicious homemade multigrain bagels!