There are few topics in the bagel world as polarizing as toasting. If you walk into certain old-school shops in New York City and ask for a bagel "toasted," you might get a dirty look. In other places, it’s the standard default. So, what is the rule? Is it a crime to toast, or is it a preference?
Let’s look at the arguments from both sides of the toaster oven.
The Purist Argument: "Don't Ruin the Freshness" The anti-toasting brigade operates on a simple principle: A truly fresh bagel doesn't need help. If a bagel has come out of the oven in the last hour or two, it is in its peak state. The crust is crisp, the inside is warm and moist, and the texture is perfectly chewy.
Toasting a hot, fresh bagel dries it out. It changes the texture from "chewy" to "crunchy." Purists argue that if you need to toast a bagel to make it taste good, it wasn't a good bagel to begin with. They believe you should experience the nuance of the dough and the malt without the overwhelming flavor of char.
The Pro-Toast Argument: "Texture and Temperature" On the other side, we have the texture lovers. For many, the joy of a bagel comes from the contrast: a hot, crunchy exterior and a soft interior. Toasting revives the crust, especially if the bagel has been sitting for a few hours.
Furthermore, toasting changes how the toppings interact with the bread. Butter on a cold bagel is just a slab of grease. Butter on a toasted bagel melts, soaking into the crumb and creating a rich, savory experience. Even cream cheese behaves differently on a toasted bagel, getting slightly warm and soft at the point of contact.
The Go Bagels Verdict We believe in "Bagel Liberty." While we agree that a bagel fresh out of the oven is a masterpiece that should be tried untoasted at least once, we also know that most people aren't eating the bagel the second it leaves the kitchen.
Here is our general guide to bagel etiquette:
- If it's steaming: Try it untoasted. Trust us. The texture is unlike anything else.
- If it's been a few hours: Toast it. It wakes up the starches and brings back the snap to the crust.
- If you are getting a heavy sandwich: Toasting adds structural integrity. A Bacon, Egg, and Cheese holds up better on toasted bread.
- If you are eating Cinnamon Raisin: Always toast. The caramelization of the raisins is the best part.
Ultimately, the best way to eat a bagel is the way you enjoy it. Whether you want it "lightly toasted," "dark," or "raw," we are happy to prepare it. Just don't be surprised if our bakers shed a tiny tear when you toast a hot one!
