Bagel & Beyond: The Everything Bagel Seasoning Revolution with Olde Thompson

Bagel & Beyond: The Everything Bagel Seasoning Revolution with Olde Thompson

Bagel & Beyond: The Everything Bagel Seasoning Revolution with Olde Thompson

Welcome, spice lovers and culinary explorers! Whether you're a seasoned pro in the kitchen or just getting started on your flavor journey, today we’re diving headfirst into one of the most beloved seasonings of the modern age — Olde Thompson Everything Bagel Seasoning. You know, that magical blend of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and salt that instantly turns any snack into a gourmet experience.

What Is Everything Bagel Seasoning Anyway?

At its core, everything bagel seasoning is the essence of the classic everything bagel packed into a shakable form. Olde Thompson has perfected this blend by balancing nutty, savory, garlicky, and slightly sweet notes to create a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.

  • Sesame Seeds: Nutty and crunchy, adds texture and warmth.
  • Poppy Seeds: Delicate crunch with a slight earthiness.
  • Garlic Flakes: Robust and aromatic, brings depth.
  • Onion Flakes: Sweet and pungent, layers complexity.
  • Salt: The backbone — enhances all other flavors.

Why Olde Thompson Stands Out

With so many brands jumping on the everything bagel bandwagon, what makes Olde Thompson special? Let’s break it down in a quick comparison table.

Brand Texture Flavor Balance Versatility Packaging
Olde Thompson Mildly Coarse Balanced & Complex Very High Air-tight Shaker Bottle
Other Brand A Too Fine Overly Salty Moderate Plastic Jar
Other Brand B Too Coarse Inconsistent Flavor Low Loose Lid Container

Top 10 Creative Uses for Olde Thompson Everything Bagel Seasoning

You don’t need a bagel to enjoy this stuff. In fact, sprinkling it on random foods might be one of life’s great underrated joys. Here are our top 10 picks (and yes, they all work):

  1. Egg Dishes: Scrambled eggs? Omelets? Yes, please! Sprinkle before cooking or after for extra flair.
  2. Avocado Toast: A little EBS and a drizzle of olive oil on toast = instant brunch glory.
  3. Popcorn: Toss lightly over freshly popped popcorn for an addictive umami kick.
  4. Salad Dressing Booster: Mix a pinch into Greek yogurt or ranch dressing for a savory upgrade.
  5. Roasted Veggies: Toss with olive oil and sprinkle before roasting. Brussel sprouts never tasted this good!
  6. Homemade Crackers: Add to dough or sprinkle on top before baking.
  7. Grilled Cheese: Sprinkle between slices or on the outside of the sandwich for crusty flavor bombs.
  8. Marinades: Mix with olive oil and lemon juice for a killer chicken marinade.
  9. Butter Blend: Mix with softened butter, roll into a log, and freeze. Slice onto grilled steak or corn!
  10. Ramen Upgrade: Stir a dash into your next cup of instant ramen for serious flavor boost.

The Science Behind the Flavor

Ever wondered why this mix is so darn delicious? Let’s take a peek at the flavor science behind it:

  • Umami Boost: Garlic and onion bring natural glutamates that enhance savoriness.
  • Crunch Factor: The combination of seeds creates textural contrast, making each bite more interesting.
  • Salt Magic: Salt not only enhances flavor but also suppresses bitterness — perfect for balancing the earthy seeds.
  • Nutty Notes: Sesame and poppy add a toasted richness that makes everything feel indulgent without being heavy.

DIY vs. Store-Bought: Should You Make Your Own?

While it's fun to make your own everything seasoning, here’s a side-by-side breakdown of the pros and cons of DIY versus Olde Thompson:

DIY Version Olde Thompson
Customization High Medium
Convenience Low High
Consistency Variable Perfect Batch After Batch
Cost Lower per ounce Worth Every Penny

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some burning questions you might have about using everything bagel seasoning:

  • Can I use it as a rub for meats? Absolutely! Try it on chicken breasts or pork chops before grilling or roasting.
  • Is it gluten-free? Yes, the Olde Thompson version contains no gluten-containing ingredients.
  • How long does it last? Up to two years if stored in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
  • Can I put it on desserts? Only if you like weirdly delicious surprises — try it on chocolate bark!

Pro Tips for Storing and Using Everything Bagel Seasoning

Maximize your flavor experience with these expert-approved tips:

  • Store in an airtight container away from heat and light to preserve freshness.
  • Use within six months of opening for best flavor impact.
  • Layer it early in recipes to infuse oils and bases, then sprinkle again at the end for visual appeal.
  • Pair with citrus zest for a fresh, zesty twist.
  • Combine with mayo for a killer dip or sandwich spread.

Cultural Impact: Why This Spice Trend Isn’t Going Away

Everything bagel seasoning isn't just a fad — it's a cultural phenomenon. From TikTok hacks to fine dining menus, this blend has infiltrated kitchens across America and beyond. Its versatility and nostalgic flavor profile tap into universal cravings, making it a staple in both casual snacking and sophisticated dishes.

Final Thoughts: A Dash of Joy in Every Shake

Whether you're a professional chef looking to elevate your menu or a home cook trying to jazz up your weekly meals, Olde Thompson Everything Bagel Seasoning deserves a spot in your pantry. It’s more than just a topping — it’s a flavor enhancer, a creativity spark, and a conversation starter.

So Go Ahead, Get Shaky

Sprinkle it. Shake it. Love it. And remember — when life gives you blandness, reach for the EBS and turn every moment into a flavor-packed adventure.

Chef Liu Wei

Chef Liu Wei

A master of Chinese cuisine with special expertise in the regional spice traditions of Sichuan, Hunan, Yunnan, and Cantonese cooking. Chef Liu's culinary journey began in his family's restaurant in Chengdu, where he learned the complex art of balancing the 23 distinct flavors recognized in traditional Chinese gastronomy. His expertise in heat management techniques - from numbing Sichuan peppercorns to the slow-building heat of dried chilies - transforms how home cooks approach spicy cuisines. Chef Liu excels at explaining the philosophy behind Chinese five-spice and other traditional blends, highlighting their connection to traditional Chinese medicine and seasonal eating practices. His demonstrations of proper wok cooking techniques show how heat, timing, and spice application work together to create authentic flavors. Chef Liu's approachable teaching style makes the sophisticated spice traditions of China accessible to cooks of all backgrounds.