Montreal is known for many things – its vibrant arts scene, beautiful architecture, and delicious food. But one of the city’s most iconic culinary creations is the Montreal-style bagel. These bagels are smaller, denser, and sweeter than their New York counterparts, and they have a unique flavor that sets them apart.
One of the secrets to the deliciousness of Montreal-style bagels is the way they are baked. Montreal bagel baking is a time-honored tradition that has been passed down through generations of bakers. The process begins with a simple dough made from flour, water, sugar, salt, and yeast. The dough is then shaped into rings, boiled in honey-sweetened water, and baked in a wood-fired oven.
The wood-fired oven is a key element in the baking process, as it imparts a smoky flavor to the bagels that is unique to Montreal-style bagels. The high heat of the oven also gives the bagels a crispy exterior while keeping the interior soft and chewy. This combination of textures is what makes Montreal-style bagels so irresistible.
Another secret to the deliciousness of Montreal-style bagels is the use of honey in the boiling water. The honey adds a touch of sweetness to the bagels and helps to create a shiny, golden crust. This sweet and savory combination is what sets Montreal-style bagels apart from other types of bagels.
In addition to the baking process, the toppings used on Montreal-style bagels also play a role in their unique flavor. While New York-style bagels are typically topped with sesame seeds or poppy seeds, Montreal-style bagels are often topped with a mixture of sesame seeds and black caraway seeds. This combination of seeds adds a nutty flavor to the bagels that complements the sweetness of the dough.
Montreal-style bagels are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, when they are still warm and crispy. They can be eaten plain, with cream cheese, or as the base for a sandwich. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, one thing is for sure – once you taste a Montreal-style bagel, you’ll never look at bagels the same way again.
So if you find yourself in Montreal, be sure to seek out a bakery that specializes in Montreal-style bagels. Unlock the secrets of Montreal bagel baking and treat yourself to a taste of this delicious and unique culinary tradition. Your taste buds will thank you.
