Salt and Garlic Bagel Chip Sensation: Easy Homemade Recipe

Bagel chips are a delightfully crunchy snack, perfect for dipping, topping soups and salads, or simply enjoying on their own. While store-bought versions are convenient, nothing beats the fresh, intense flavor of homemade bagel chips, especially when they’re seasoned with the irresistible combination of salt and garlic. This recipe provides a simple, step-by-step guide to creating the perfect batch of salt and garlic bagel chips in your own kitchen. Get ready to transform ordinary bagels into an extraordinary snack!

Why Make Your Own Bagel Chips?

Before diving into the recipe, let’s explore why making your own bagel chips is worth the effort:

* **Superior Flavor:** Homemade bagel chips offer a significantly fresher and more intense flavor compared to store-bought options. You have complete control over the ingredients, ensuring a perfect balance of salt and garlic.
* **Customization:** This recipe is a base; you can easily customize it to your liking. Add other spices, herbs, or even a touch of sweetness to create unique flavor combinations.
* **Cost-Effective:** Making your own bagel chips is often more economical than buying them pre-made, especially if you already have bagels on hand or can find them on sale.
* **Reduced Additives:** Store-bought bagel chips can contain unnecessary additives and preservatives. By making your own, you know exactly what’s going into your snack.
* **Perfect for Using Stale Bagels:** Instead of throwing away slightly stale bagels, transform them into crispy, flavorful chips. It’s a great way to reduce food waste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delicious salt and garlic bagel chips, you’ll need the following ingredients:

* **Bagels:** 6 bagels, any variety (plain, everything, sesame, onion – avoid sweet bagels like blueberry or chocolate chip for this recipe). Stale bagels work best, as they slice more easily.
* **Olive Oil:** ¼ cup. Olive oil adds flavor and helps the chips crisp up in the oven. You can substitute with other oils like canola or vegetable oil, but olive oil provides the best flavor.
* **Garlic Powder:** 2 tablespoons. Garlic powder provides a consistent and intense garlic flavor.
* **Salt:** 1 ½ teaspoons. Kosher salt or sea salt is recommended for the best flavor. Adjust to your preference.
* **Optional Seasonings:** Feel free to add other seasonings to enhance the flavor. Some suggestions include:
* Onion powder
* Dried oregano
* Dried basil
* Red pepper flakes (for a touch of heat)
* Parmesan cheese (grated)

Equipment You’ll Need

* **Sharp Serrated Knife:** A sharp serrated knife is essential for slicing the bagels evenly.
* **Cutting Board:** A sturdy cutting board to protect your countertop.
* **Large Bowl:** For tossing the bagel slices with olive oil and seasonings.
* **Baking Sheets:** Two large baking sheets to spread the bagel chips in a single layer.
* **Parchment Paper (Optional):** Parchment paper makes cleanup easier and prevents the chips from sticking to the baking sheets. However, it’s not essential.
* **Oven:** Of course, you will need an oven for baking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get started with the recipe. Follow these detailed steps to create the perfect batch of salt and garlic bagel chips:

**Step 1: Preheat the Oven**

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature allows the bagel chips to crisp up without burning.

**Step 2: Slice the Bagels**

Using a sharp serrated knife, carefully slice each bagel into thin rounds, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. The thinner the slices, the crispier the chips will be. Thicker slices will be chewier. Aim for consistent thickness for even baking.

**Tip:** If your bagels are very stale, they might be difficult to slice. You can microwave them for a few seconds to soften them slightly, but be careful not to overheat them.

**Step 3: Prepare the Seasoning Mixture**

In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, and salt. Whisk together until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you’re adding any other spices or herbs, mix them in at this stage.

**Step 4: Toss the Bagel Slices with Seasoning**

Add the sliced bagels to the bowl with the olive oil and seasoning mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure that each slice is evenly coated. Use your hands to massage the seasoning into the bagel slices if necessary.

**Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheets**

Line your baking sheets with parchment paper (optional). Spread the bagel slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets. Avoid overcrowding the sheets, as this will prevent the chips from crisping up properly. If necessary, use two baking sheets.

**Step 6: Bake the Bagel Chips**

Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 12-18 minutes, or until the bagel chips are golden brown and crispy. The baking time will vary depending on the thickness of the slices and your oven. Check the chips frequently to prevent burning.

**Tip:** About halfway through the baking time, flip the bagel chips over to ensure even browning.

**Step 7: Cool and Store**

Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the bagel chips cool completely on the baking sheets. As they cool, they will crisp up further.

Once the bagel chips are completely cool, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week.

Tips for the Perfect Bagel Chips

Here are some additional tips to ensure your salt and garlic bagel chips are a success:

* **Use Stale Bagels:** As mentioned earlier, stale bagels are easier to slice and result in crispier chips. If your bagels are fresh, you can leave them out on the counter overnight to dry out slightly.
* **Slice Evenly:** Consistent slice thickness is crucial for even baking. Take your time and use a sharp serrated knife.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheets:** Overcrowding prevents the chips from crisping up properly. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
* **Watch the Baking Time:** Keep a close eye on the bagel chips while they’re baking to prevent burning. The baking time can vary depending on your oven and the thickness of the slices.
* **Cool Completely:** Allow the bagel chips to cool completely before storing them. This will ensure that they are as crispy as possible.
* **Experiment with Flavors:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and flavor combinations. Try adding onion powder, dried herbs, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Salt and garlic bagel chips are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:

* **Dipping:** Serve them with your favorite dips, such as hummus, spinach artichoke dip, French onion dip, or guacamole.
* **Topping:** Use them as a topping for soups, salads, or chili. They add a delicious crunch and flavor.
* **Snacking:** Enjoy them on their own as a simple and satisfying snack.
* **Cheese Boards:** Add them to your cheese boards for a salty and crunchy element.
* **Party Appetizer:** Bagel chips make a great appetizer for parties and gatherings. Set out a bowl with a variety of dips for your guests to enjoy.

Variations

Here are some variations to the basic salt and garlic bagel chip recipe:

* **Everything Bagel Chips:** Use everything bagels and skip the garlic powder. The everything bagel seasoning will provide plenty of flavor.
* **Onion Bagel Chips:** Use onion bagels and add a pinch of onion powder to the seasoning mixture.
* **Sesame Bagel Chips:** Use sesame bagels and add a sprinkle of sesame seeds to the seasoning mixture.
* **Spicy Bagel Chips:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mixture for a touch of heat.
* **Parmesan Bagel Chips:** Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the bagel slices before baking.
* **Italian Herb Bagel Chips:** Add a mixture of dried Italian herbs, such as oregano, basil, and thyme, to the seasoning mixture.
* **Sweet and Salty Bagel Chips:** Add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the seasoning mixture for a sweet and salty flavor.

Troubleshooting

* **Bagel chips are not crispy:** Make sure the bagel slices are thin enough and that you’re not overcrowding the baking sheets. Also, ensure that your oven is preheated to the correct temperature and that you’re baking the chips long enough.
* **Bagel chips are burning:** Reduce the oven temperature slightly and check the chips more frequently. You may also need to adjust the baking time depending on your oven.
* **Bagel chips are sticking to the baking sheet:** Use parchment paper to prevent sticking. If you don’t have parchment paper, you can lightly grease the baking sheet with cooking spray.
* **Bagel chips are too salty:** Reduce the amount of salt in the seasoning mixture.
* **Bagel chips are not flavorful enough:** Add more garlic powder or other spices to the seasoning mixture.

Recipe Summary

Here’s a quick summary of the recipe for easy reference:

**Yields:** Approximately 60-70 bagel chips
**Prep time:** 15 minutes
**Cook time:** 12-18 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 6 bagels, any variety (stale bagels work best)
* ¼ cup olive oil
* 2 tablespoons garlic powder
* 1 ½ teaspoons salt
* Optional seasonings: onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes, Parmesan cheese

**Equipment:**

* Sharp serrated knife
* Cutting board
* Large bowl
* Baking sheets
* Parchment paper (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice bagels into thin rounds (1/8 to 1/4 inch thick).
3. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, and salt. Mix well.
4. Add bagel slices to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
5. Spread bagel slices in a single layer on baking sheets.
6. Bake for 12-18 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
7. Cool completely on baking sheets before storing in an airtight container.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

*Please note that the following nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

Serving Size: Approximately 10 bagel chips

* Calories: 150-200
* Fat: 8-12 grams
* Saturated Fat: 1-2 grams
* Cholesterol: 0 mg
* Sodium: 200-300 mg
* Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams
* Fiber: 1-2 grams
* Sugar: 1-2 grams
* Protein: 4-5 grams

This information should be considered a general guide only. For accurate nutritional information, calculate based on the specific ingredients used.

Conclusion

Making your own salt and garlic bagel chips is a simple and rewarding way to enjoy a delicious and versatile snack. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of time, you can transform ordinary bagels into crispy, flavorful chips that are perfect for dipping, topping, or snacking. So, grab some bagels, preheat your oven, and get ready to create your own batch of homemade bagel chip perfection! Enjoy!