Bagel and cream cheese

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NCI cream cheese bagel

Bagel and cream cheese is a popular food combination originating from Jewish cuisine in New York City. It consists of a bagel, a type of bread roll with a dense, chewy texture, and cream cheese, a soft, spreadable cheese. This combination is often enjoyed as a breakfast item or a snack.

History

The bagel has its origins in Poland, where it was a staple in the diet of the Ashkenazi Jews. The first known mention of the bagel dates back to the early 17th century. Bagels were brought to the United States by Jewish immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Cream cheese, on the other hand, was developed in the United States in the late 19th century. The combination of bagel and cream cheese became popular in New York City in the early 20th century.

Preparation

A bagel is typically sliced in half horizontally and toasted. Cream cheese is then spread on one or both halves. Various toppings can be added to enhance the flavor, including lox (smoked salmon), capers, red onion, and tomato.

Varieties

There are several varieties of bagels and cream cheese, including:

• Plain Bagel and Cream Cheese: The most basic form, consisting of a plain bagel and plain cream cheese.
• Everything Bagel and Cream Cheese: A bagel topped with a mixture of seeds, garlic, and onion, paired with plain or flavored cream cheese.
• Flavored Cream Cheese: Cream cheese can be flavored with ingredients such as chives, strawberries, or vegetables.

Nutritional Information

Bagels and cream cheese can be high in calories and fat, depending on the size of the bagel and the amount of cream cheese used. A typical serving can provide a significant amount of carbohydrates, protein, and calcium.

Cultural Significance

The bagel and cream cheese combination is a staple in Jewish-American cuisine and has become a popular food item across the United States. It is often associated with New York City and is a common offering in delicatessens and bagel shops.

Related Pages

• Bagel
• Cream cheese
• Jewish cuisine
• Lox
• New York City