What are the best inclusions for bagels?

Bagels are an iconic baked good, cherished across cultures for their delightful chewy texture, glossy crust, and dense interior. One of the factors that elevate the humble bagel to new heights of culinary enjoyment is its inclusions. These are the flavorful ingredients that can be incorporated into the dough or used as toppings to add dimension and variety to the basic bagel recipe. Whether you are a fan of sweet treats or savory delights, there are countless ways to make your bagels stand out by carefully choosing the right inclusions.

This comprehensive guide will delve into some of the most popular and creative inclusions for bagels, from traditional options like raisins and garlic to more unconventional ideas such as matcha powder and smoked paprika. We will also explore techniques to incorporate these inclusions into your bagels for the best results, along with tips for perfecting your baking skills.

Why Add Inclusions to Bagels?

Adding inclusions to your bagels offers a range of benefits that go beyond mere flavor. Here are some compelling reasons to experiment with different inclusions:

• Enhanced Flavor Profile: Inclusions such as dried fruits, nuts, herbs, and spices introduce new flavors, making each bite more interesting and satisfying. The added ingredients can complement or contrast with the base flavor of the bagel, creating a unique and memorable taste.
• Textural Variety: Adding inclusions like nuts, seeds, or chocolate chips can introduce crunch, chewiness, or bursts of sweetness, providing a textural contrast to the dense and chewy nature of the bagel dough.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Colorful inclusions like cranberries, blueberries, or green herbs can make bagels visually appealing, adding a vibrant look that entices the eye and makes them perfect for brunch spreads or bakery displays.
• Customization: Bagels with inclusions can be customized to suit different tastes and occasions, from breakfast to dessert. Sweet inclusions can turn bagels into a dessert-like treat, while savory options can create a more filling, meal-like bagel.

When choosing the best inclusions for your bagels, it is important to understand how they interact with the dough, at what stage to add them, and how to distribute them evenly. For those new to baking bagels, this guide on bagel-making techniques can provide helpful foundational insights.

Popular Sweet Inclusions for Bagels

Sweet inclusions add a delightful contrast to the slightly salty, chewy nature of bagels. Here are some of the most popular and effective sweet options:

Raisins and Dried Fruits

• Why They’re Popular: Raisins, cranberries, apricots, and other dried fruits are classic inclusions that add natural sweetness and chewiness to bagels. They pair well with a variety of spices and other sweet elements.
• How to Use Them: It’s best to add raisins and dried fruits towards the end of the kneading process. This prevents them from breaking down and ensures they remain intact, providing a chewy burst of flavor in each bite.
• Tips for Incorporation: Soak the dried fruits in warm water, juice, or even a bit of rum before adding them to the dough. This prevents them from drawing moisture out of the dough, which can result in a dry texture.

Chocolate Chips

• Why They’re Popular: Chocolate chips bring a rich, decadent flavor to bagels, making them perfect for a sweet breakfast or dessert option.
• How to Use Them: Fold chocolate chips into the dough just before shaping to prevent them from melting during mixing. Consider using mini chocolate chips for a more even distribution throughout the dough.
• Challenges and Solutions: Chocolate can be tricky to work with because it melts easily. To prevent this, chill the chocolate chips in the refrigerator before adding them to the dough. Alternatively, fold them in by hand after the dough has risen. You can find more tips on baking with chocolate.

Cinnamon and Spices

• Why They’re Popular: Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom can add warmth and depth to a sweet bagel, creating an aromatic experience with every bite.
• How to Use Them: These spices can be mixed directly into the dough or swirled through as a separate mixture (e.g., cinnamon-sugar swirl). Cinnamon pairs particularly well with raisins, chocolate, or nuts.
• Tips for Incorporation: Start with a small amount of spice and adjust to taste. Overusing spices can overwhelm the palate and mask the flavors of other inclusions.

Nuts and Seeds

• Why They’re Popular: Nuts like almonds, walnuts, and pecans add a pleasant crunch, while seeds like poppy or sesame add a subtle nutty flavor and texture.
• How to Use Them: Nuts can be chopped and folded into the dough, or left whole and added as toppings. Seeds can be mixed into the dough or sprinkled on top before baking.
• Tips for Incorporation: Lightly toast the nuts or seeds before adding them to the dough to enhance their flavor. This also reduces their moisture content, making them less likely to interfere with the dough’s hydration.

Popular Savory Inclusions for Bagels

Savory inclusions add a rich, satisfying dimension to bagels, making them ideal for lunch or as a snack. Here are some tried-and-true savory options:

Cheese Variants (Cheddar, Asiago, etc.)

• Why They’re Popular: Cheeses such as Cheddar, Asiago, and Parmesan bring a salty, umami flavor that complements the bagel’s slightly sweet dough.
• How to Use Them: Grated or cubed cheese can be mixed into the dough or placed on top before baking for a melty, golden finish. Incorporate cheese just before the final proofing to maintain its flavor and texture.
• Tips for Incorporation: Use cheese with a low moisture content to avoid making the dough too wet. For a gourmet twist, consider using aged or smoked varieties.

Herbs and Spices (Garlic, Rosemary, etc.)

• Why They’re Popular: Herbs and spices add depth and complexity to bagels, making them more flavorful and aromatic.
• How to Use Them: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can be chopped finely and kneaded into the dough, while dried herbs like oregano or basil are easier to distribute evenly. Spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, or chili flakes can be added directly into the dough or sprinkled on top.
• Tips for Incorporation: Use fresh herbs sparingly to avoid overpowering the dough. For a bolder flavor, consider using a blend of herbs and spices.

Vegetables (Onions, Jalapeños, etc.)

• Why They’re Popular: Vegetables add a burst of flavor and a bit of texture to bagels. Popular choices include caramelized onions, roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, and jalapeños.
• How to Use Them: Dice vegetables finely and distribute them evenly throughout the dough. Pre-cook any vegetables that have high water content (like onions or peppers) to prevent them from making the dough too moist.
• Tips for Incorporation: Blot roasted or sautéed vegetables with a paper towel to remove excess moisture before adding them to the dough.

Meats and Fish (Bacon, Smoked Salmon, etc.)

• Why They’re Popular: Meats like bacon, ham, or pancetta add a salty, savory flavor that pairs well with cheeses and herbs. Smoked salmon adds a gourmet twist and is perfect for brunch bagels.
• How to Use Them: Cook and crumble bacon or other meats before adding to the dough. For smoked salmon, add as a topping after baking to maintain its delicate texture.
• Tips for Incorporation: To prevent spoilage, use meats that are cured or pre-cooked and add them shortly before baking.

Advanced Techniques for Adding Inclusions to Bagels

Mastering the art of adding inclusions to bagels can elevate your baking game. Here are some advanced techniques to ensure success:

Timing of Adding Inclusions

The timing of when you add inclusions to your dough can significantly impact the final result. For best results:

• Mix Inclusions Towards the End of Kneading: For ingredients like raisins or chocolate chips, add them after the dough has been kneaded but before shaping. This prevents the inclusions from breaking down or melting during mixing.
• Incorporate at the Shaping Stage: For larger inclusions or fillings, you can add them during the shaping process. Flatten the dough slightly, spread the inclusions, and then roll or fold the dough to encase them.

For specific timing tips, check out this guide on when to add toppings to sourdough bagels.

Techniques for Even Distribution

Ensuring that inclusions are evenly distributed throughout the dough is key to achieving a balanced flavor and texture:

• Folding Technique: Gently fold inclusions into the dough using a folding method similar to that used for laminating pastry. This helps to distribute inclusions evenly without overworking the dough.
• Use a Stand Mixer: A stand mixer can help incorporate inclusions more evenly, especially for dense ingredients like nuts or dried fruits.
• Layering Method: For swirled inclusions like cinnamon sugar, roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread the inclusion mixture, and then roll it up before shaping.

Handling Moist or Melting Ingredients

Certain inclusions like chocolate chips or caramelized onions can be tricky due to their tendency to melt or release moisture:

• Chocolate Chips: Chill chips before adding them to the dough to prevent premature melting.
• Moist Ingredients: Drain and pat dry ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or olives to avoid excess moisture. Consider using partially dried vegetables or fruit for a balance of flavor and texture.

Creative and Unconventional Inclusions for Bagels

If you’re looking to push the boundaries of bagel-making, consider these creative and unconventional inclusions:

Matcha Powder or Coffee Grounds

• Why They’re Unique: Matcha adds a distinct green color and earthy flavor, while coffee grounds provide a rich, bitter note that complements sweet and savory bagels.
• How to Use Them: Incorporate matcha powder or coffee grounds directly into the dough. Start with small amounts and adjust to taste.
• Pairing Ideas: Matcha pairs well with white chocolate chips or lemon zest, while coffee grounds work with dark chocolate, walnuts, or caramel.

Regional and Cultural Inclusions

• Kimchi: Adds a spicy, tangy flavor with a bit of crunch. Perfect for a fusion-style bagel.
• Za’atar: A Middle Eastern spice blend that adds a tangy, herbaceous note.
• Curry Powder or Turmeric: Adds warmth and a vibrant color to the bagel, creating a unique savory option.

Fusion Ideas

• Bagel Sushi Rolls: Use seaweed, sesame seeds, and wasabi as inclusions for a bagel inspired by sushi.
• Everything Bagel Inside-Out: Incorporate the “everything” seasoning mix into the dough, not just as a topping.

Best Practices for Preparing and Storing Bagels with Inclusions

To maximize the flavor and texture of your bagels, follow these best practices:

Storing Bagels

• Cool Completely: Allow bagels to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Freezing for Freshness: Wrap bagels tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag to preserve their freshness for up to three months.
• Reheating Tips: Reheat bagels in an oven or toaster oven to restore their crusty exterior and chewy interior. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them rubbery.

Reheating and Serving Tips

• Use a Preheated Oven: To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes.
• Avoid Microwave: Avoid microwaving bagels as it can make them tough and chewy.

Packaging for Gift Giving or Retail

• Airtight Packaging: Use airtight packaging materials such as vacuum-sealed bags or plastic wrap to maintain the bagel’s freshness.
• Labeling: Clearly label bagels with their flavor and any allergens, such as nuts or dairy, to inform recipients or customers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Adding Inclusions

While adding inclusions can elevate your bagels, there are common mistakes to avoid to ensure the best results:

Overloading with Too Many Inclusions

• Problem: Adding too many inclusions can overwhelm the dough and make it difficult to handle.
• Solution: Aim for balance – less is often more. Consider the size and type of inclusion and adjust quantities accordingly.

Not Considering Moisture Content

• Problem: Ingredients with high moisture content can make the dough too wet, affecting its structure.
• Solution: Pre-cook or dry ingredients like vegetables, fruits, or meats before adding them to the dough.

Ignoring Ingredient Compatibility

• Problem: Some flavors may not complement each other, resulting in a bagel that tastes unbalanced.
• Solution: Choose inclusions that work well together. For example, pair sweet ingredients with other sweet flavors and savory inclusions with complementary spices or cheeses.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. What are some great inclusions for sweet bagels? Popular choices include raisins, chocolate chips, cinnamon, and nuts.

2. How can I prevent inclusions from falling out of my bagels? Incorporate them thoroughly during the kneading or shaping stage.

3. Can I add inclusions to gluten-free bagels? Yes, but be mindful of the type of inclusions to ensure they don’t affect the dough’s structure.

4. What are some creative savory inclusions for bagels? Consider using cheese, fresh herbs, roasted vegetables, or smoked meats for a savory twist.

5. How do I avoid moisture issues with certain inclusions? Pre-cook or dry ingredients with high moisture content, such as vegetables or fruits, before adding them to the dough.

Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Bagel Inclusion

Inclusions can elevate the simple bagel to something truly extraordinary. From classic combinations like raisins and cinnamon to more daring choices like matcha or kimchi, the possibilities are endless. Experiment with different flavors and textures to discover your perfect bagel. Remember, the key is balance – choosing inclusions that complement each other and enhance the overall flavor and texture of the bagel.