Cottage Cheese Bagels

1. Prepare the Mixture:
In a bowl, mix 200g cottage cheese with 1 egg until well combined.
Add 60g of grated hard cheese.
Incorporate your favorite spices, herbs, chopped green onions, or dill.
2. Add the Flour:
Gradually add 30g of rice flour, mixing well after each addition. Adjust based on the moisture content of the cottage cheese—if the mixture is too wet, add a bit more flour, but don’t make it too dry. The consistency should be slightly moist and curd-like.
3. Form the Bagels:
Divide the mixture into 9 equal portions.
Shape each portion into a bagel or your desired form, and place them on a baking sheet. The dough will be sticky, so handle it gently.
4. Bake the Bagels:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
Sprinkle sesame or other seeds on top of each bagel for added texture and flavor.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the bagels turn golden brown.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the bagels cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or cooled.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve warm with fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced breakfast.
Pair with butter, cream cheese, or jam for a tasty snack.
Top with avocado slices or smoked salmon for a more savory meal.
Serve alongside a hearty soup or salad for lunch.
Enjoy with a drizzle of honey for a sweet touch.
Cooking Tips:
Flour Adjustment: Depending on how wet the cottage cheese is, you may need to adjust the amount of flour for the right dough consistency.
Customize Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, or add spices like paprika or cumin.
Cheese Choice: You can use any hard cheese of your choice for different flavor profiles—cheddar, Parmesan, or Swiss cheese work great.
Shaping: If you find the dough too sticky to handle, lightly oil your hands or use a small amount of flour to shape the bagels.
Crispier Topping: For extra crunch, brush the bagels with a little olive oil before sprinkling with sesame seeds.
Nutritional Benefits:
Cottage Cheese: High in protein, low in fat, and an excellent source of calcium.
Cheese: Adds a good dose of protein and calcium, contributing to bone health.
Herbs: Fresh herbs add vitamins and antioxidants, enhancing the nutritional value of the bagels.
Rice Flour: Naturally gluten-free and low in calories, making this a light yet satisfying option.
Dietary Information:
Vegetarian: Yes
Gluten-Free: Yes, when using rice flour or any other gluten-free flour.
Low-Carb Option: Can be adapted to low-carb diets by reducing the flour and increasing the cheese content.
Nutritional Facts (Per Bagel, Approximate):
Calories: 150 kcal
Protein: 9g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 1g
Storage:
Refrigerate: Store the bagels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: For the best flavor, reheat the bagels in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for a few minutes or in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
Freeze: These bagels can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Quick and Easy: These bagels are ready in just about 35 minutes, making them perfect for busy mornings.
Customizable: Add your favorite herbs, spices, or cheese for endless variations.
Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein, calcium, and essential nutrients, these bagels are a wholesome choice.
Gluten-Free Option: Made with rice flour, this recipe can easily accommodate gluten-free diets.
Delicious Warm or Cooled: Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or later in the day, these bagels stay tender and flavorful.
Conclusion:
Cottage Cheese Bagels are a fantastic combination of taste and nutrition. These bagels are quick to prepare, using simple, wholesome ingredients, making them an ideal choice for breakfast, snacks, or even a light lunch. Whether enjoyed warm with your favorite toppings or packed for a to-go snack, these bagels will keep you satisfied and energized throughout the day.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use regular flour instead of rice flour?
Yes, you can substitute rice flour with regular all-purpose flour if you don’t need a gluten-free option.
Can I make these bagels without cheese?
While cheese adds flavor and moisture, you can omit it or replace it with a vegan alternative if preferred.
Can I freeze these bagels?
Yes, they freeze well. Wrap them individually, store in a freezer-safe bag, and thaw in the fridge before reheating.
How can I prevent the dough from sticking when shaping the bagels?
Lightly oil your hands or dust them with flour to help shape the dough without sticking.
What other seeds can I use for topping?
You can use poppy seeds, sunflower seeds, chia seeds, or even flaxseeds for a nutritious and crunchy topping.