Description
To fully appreciate this breakfast creation, it helps to understand what makes each individual component so special. This dish is a beautiful fusion of traditional Western baking techniques and classic Middle Eastern pantry staples. Instead of a light, airy pastry, a proper bagel is dense and remarkably chewy, which provides the perfect sturdy foundation for heavy, flavorful toppings.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Bagels
- 3½ cups bread flour
- 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1¼ cups warm water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For Boiling
- 2 quarts water
- 1 tbsp honey
For the Topping
- 1 cup labneh
- 2 tbsp za’atar seasoning
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Sliced cucumber
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh mint leaves
- Sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Make the dough: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5–10 minutes until foamy. Add the flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the bagels: Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each into a ball, then poke a hole through the center and gently stretch into a bagel shape.
- Boil: Bring the water and honey to a gentle boil. Boil each bagel for 1 minute per side, then transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the bagels for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown. Cool slightly.
- Assemble: Slice the bagels in half and spread generously with labneh. Sprinkle with za’atar, drizzle with olive oil, and top with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, mint, and sesame seeds if desired.
- Serve: Enjoy warm or at room temperature with fresh fruit, olives, or a hot cup of tea.
Notes
Serve the bagels warm and garnish with cucumber, tomatoes, fresh mint, or olives for extra freshness and color. Pair with hot tea or freshly brewed coffee for a delicious start to the day.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (+ 1 hour rising time)
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bagel
- Calories: 390 kcal
Keywords: Middle Eastern bagels, savory labneh toast, zaatar breakfast idea, Mediterranean bagel spread