These Cheesy Cottage Cheese Bagels are a delightful, protein-packed alternative to traditional bread-based bagels. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, they’re soft, flavorful, and customizable with your favorite herbs and spices. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a satisfying snack, or a light lunch, these bagels are the perfect solution. The addition of sesame seeds adds a delightful crunch, making them both nutritious and delicious.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 200 g (about 1 cup) cottage cheese
- 1 large egg
- 60 g (about 1/2 cup) hard cheese (cheddar, gouda, or your choice), grated
- Spices, green onions, dill, or other herbs (to taste)
- 30 g (about 1/4 cup) rice flour (adjust based on consistency)
- Sesame or other seeds for sprinkling
Directions
- Prepare the Mixture
- In a bowl, mix the cottage cheese and egg until smooth.
- Add grated hard cheese and mix thoroughly.
- Incorporate your chosen spices, chopped green onions, dill, or other herbs.
- Add the Flour
- Gradually mix in the rice flour. Adjust the amount depending on the moisture content of the cottage cheese.
- The dough should be slightly moist but firm enough to shape.
- Form the Bagels
- Divide the mixture into 9 equal portions.
- Shape each portion into a bagel or your preferred form, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the Bagels
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).
- Sprinkle sesame seeds or other toppings over the bagels.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Let the bagels cool slightly before serving. They are delicious warm or cooled.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of cream cheese or your favorite spread.
- Pair with a bowl of soup or salad for a light lunch.
- Enjoy with a drizzle of honey for a sweet twist.
- Add smoked salmon and avocado for a hearty breakfast.
- Use as a base for mini bagel pizzas with marinara and toppings.
Cooking Tips
- If the dough is too sticky, wet your hands slightly to shape the bagels more easily.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices for unique flavor profiles.
- Grate the hard cheese finely to ensure even distribution.
- Avoid overmixing the dough to maintain a tender texture.
- For added flavor, mix sesame seeds with poppy seeds before sprinkling.
Nutritional Benefits
- High Protein: Cottage cheese and eggs provide a significant protein boost.
- Gluten-Free: Made with rice flour, this recipe is suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
- Low-Carb Option: Great for those watching carbohydrate intake.
- Rich in Calcium: Hard cheese and cottage cheese contribute to bone health.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free: Uses rice flour instead of wheat flour.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: Contains no meat, making it perfect for vegetarians.
- Low-Carb Option: Naturally lower in carbohydrates than traditional bagels.
Nutritional Facts (Per Bagel)
- Calories: 110
- Protein: 8 g
- Fat: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze individually wrapped bagels for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes with minimal prep.
- Customizable: Add your favorite herbs, spices, or toppings to suit your taste.
- Healthy and Filling: A nutritious, protein-packed option for any meal.
- Gluten-Free Option: Perfect for those avoiding gluten.
Conclusion
Cheesy Cottage Cheese Bagels are a versatile and nutritious addition to your meal rotation. Their soft texture, cheesy flavor, and customizable nature make them a hit with everyone. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, lunch, or a snack, these bagels are sure to impress. Try this simple recipe today and enjoy the perfect blend of flavor and nutrition in every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use regular flour instead of rice flour?
- Yes, regular flour works, but the recipe will no longer be gluten-free.
- Can I make these bagels dairy-free?
- Substitute dairy-free cottage cheese and cheese alternatives.
- How do I prevent the dough from sticking?
- Use wet hands or lightly grease them with oil while shaping the bagels.
- Can I freeze the dough instead of baking it?
- Yes, freeze the shaped bagels and bake them fresh when needed.
- Can I add sweet flavors instead of savory?
- Yes, omit the spices and add honey or cinnamon for a sweet version.
- What can I use instead of sesame seeds?
- Try poppy seeds, sunflower seeds, or leave them plain.
- How do I ensure even cooking?
- Shape the bagels evenly and rotate the baking tray halfway through baking.
- Can I double the recipe?
- Absolutely! Double the ingredients for a larger batch.
- What is the best way to reheat these bagels?
- Warm them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes.
- Can I use almond flour instead of rice flour?
- Yes, but you may need to adjust the amount as almond flour absorbs differently.