The bagel is a popular type of bread roll, which might enjoy greater popularity abroad (especially in New York and Montreal) than in its homeland of Poland. The origin of bagels (in Polish, bajgiel, plural bajgle) dates back to the 17th century when it first appeared in the Jewish communities of Kraków. It probably originated from another Polish bread roll called obwarzanek.
Traditionally, bagels are made from leavened dough, which is shaped into a characteristic ring with a hole in the center. Before baking, bagels are briefly boiled in water, which gives them their typical shiny and slightly crunchy crust. The inside of a bagel is soft and fluffy.
In Poland, bagels were particularly popular during holidays and special occasions. They were an essential part of Jewish weddings, where they symbolized eternity and the continuity of life. It was believed that their circular shape brought good luck and blessings to the newlyweds.
Over time, bagels spread to other European countries and eventually to the United States, brought by Jewish immigrants. In New York, bagels became a symbol of the city and an integral part of local cuisine.
Americans adapted bagels to their tastes and preferences. They began experimenting with different flavors and fillings. The bagel with smoked salmon and cream cheese is one of the most famous sandwiches in the world.
The bagel nearly disappeared from Polish cuisine after World War II. This was mainly due to the tragic events of the Holocaust, during which a large part of the Jewish population was exterminated, and many survivors emigrated to other countries. With the departure of the Jewish community, many traditions and dishes, including bagels, also faded away.
The rediscovery of the bagel in Poland is a relatively recent phenomenon that began after the fall of communism. With the opening of borders and the influx of Western influences, Poles began to encounter this bread roll again, which had roots in their own country. Today, bagels are readily available in larger cities in Poland, mainly in specialized bakeries and cafes. In restaurants, they are often served as a side dish for breakfast, and in bakeries, bagels can be bought as filled sandwiches.
Have you encountered bagels on your travels? In America or Poland?
Bon appétit!
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