Embracing the Delightful Routine: My Daily Affair with the Gluten-Free Bagel
The Bagel Love Affair
In the bustling world of constantly changing food trends and adventurous culinary explorations, it's almost rare to find someone who sticks to the same lunch day in and day out. But for me, that consistent and satisfying experience comes in the form of a delectable gluten-free bagel at my very own cafe, Crum Coffee Bar. Mila, my sister, and business partner is always shocked that I really do never get bored of my bagel lunch. It’s healthy, convenient, and easy to make.
The Bagel That Stole My Heart
The sourdough gluten-free bagels! As the owner, I take immense pride in carrying these delightful rounds of goodness provided by the adorable and creative gluten-free bakery Food in the Nud here in Edmonton. These bagels are not only free from gluten but also free from eggs, dairy, and nuts, making them a perfect option for those with dietary restrictions – they’re also mostly made with organic ingredients. The bagel's texture is perfectly chewy with a touch of tanginess from the sourdough, creating a harmonious symphony of flavours.
The Art of Toasting
Toasting the sesame bagel is the crucial first step in this lunchtime ritual. As it warms up, the enticing aroma fills the room, building anticipation for the delightful experience that awaits.
A Generous Slather of Creamy Philadelphia Cream Cheese
Next comes the cream cheese, and not just any cream cheese - it's the classic and indulgent Philadelphia cream cheese. Its velvety texture and rich taste perfectly complement the tangy notes of the sourdough bagel, creating a delectable base for the fresh toppings.
Crunch and Freshness: Cucumbers and Greens
The toppings add a burst of freshness and crunch that elevates this simple yet satisfying lunch to a whole new level. I love to slice up fresh mini cucumbers, adding their cool and refreshing taste to each bite. For an extra touch of goodness, I sometimes add a generous handful of alfalfa sprouts, which infuses the bagel with a delightful earthy flavour and a satisfying crunch. However, if alfalfa sprouts aren't available, I turn to baby arugula, which brings its peppery essence, adding a touch of sophistication to the ensemble.
The Enchantment of Repetition
Some may wonder why I indulge in this same lunch every day when the menu at Crum Coffee Bar boasts a variety of options. The answer is simple - it's both healthy and delicious. Knowing that each bite will bring the same delightful explosion of flavours is like coming home to an old friend, a familiar comfort in an ever-changing world.
Heath Benefits
Anyone who knows me knows that I am health conscious. It’s no wonder why we carry so many options that are free of refined sugars and starches in our cafe. Mila and I, are obsessed with these goodies. Never for a second think you should give up flavour for the right ingredients.
Let's build up the bagel benefits by highlighting the goodness of each ingredient:
- Oat Flour:
Oat flour serves as the nutritious foundation of our gluten-free bagels. Rich in fibre, vitamins, and minerals, oats are known for promoting heart health and supporting digestion. The fibre content helps keep you feeling full and satisfied, making these bagels a perfect choice for a fulfilling lunch.
- Buckwheat Flour:
Buckwheat flour is an excellent addition to our bagels, as it's packed with nutrients like protein, iron, and magnesium. Buckwheat is gluten-free and provides sustained energy, making it an ideal choice for a nourishing and tasty lunch.
- Arrowroot Flour:
Arrowroot flour is a gluten-free, grain-free, and easily digestible starch. It adds a light and fluffy texture to the bagels while providing a dose of vitamins and minerals. Arrowroot is also known to be gentle on the digestive system, making our bagels easy on the stomach.
- Brown Rice Flour:
Brown rice flour offers a nutty flavour and brings additional health benefits to our bagels. Rich in fibre, B vitamins, and essential minerals, brown rice flour supports brain function and aids in maintaining steady energy levels throughout the day.
- Psyllium Husk:
Psyllium husk is a remarkable source of soluble fibre, promoting healthy digestion and bowel movements. It also helps regulate blood sugar levels and supports heart health. The addition of psyllium husk makes our bagels an excellent choice for those seeking digestive wellness.
- Olive Oil:
Olive oil, known for its heart-healthy properties, is a valuable component of our bagels. Packed with monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties, olive oil contributes to overall well-being and adds a luscious taste to our bagels.
- Maple Syrup:
Maple syrup adds a touch of natural sweetness to our bagels, making them even more irresistible. Unlike refined sugars, maple syrup is a more wholesome option, providing essential antioxidants and minerals like zinc and manganese.
Convenience and Flavour at Your Fingertips
As I take the last bite of my toasted sesame bagel with cream cheese, cucumbers, and either alfalfa sprouts or baby arugula, I am filled with a sense of contentment and satisfaction. My almost daily lunch at Crum Coffee Bar is not just about eating; it's about savouring the comfort of familiarity and the pleasure of delightful flavours.
While Crum Coffee Bar may not serve these bagels as made bagels, we take joy in offering you the convenience of enjoying them at your own pace. The frozen packs of six allow you to have these delectable gluten-free bagels on hand whenever you desire. Pick them up at the café , order them on our website or order them for delivery through Skip the Dishes, Uber Eats or Door Dash! With their delightful taste, fulfilling nature, and surprising health benefits, these frozen packs of six offer you a scrumptious and nutritious lunchtime option. Don’t forget to pair it, l like I do, with a freshly brewed coffee or an americano. My favourite coffee pairing is the single-origin Mexican coffee from our partner roaster Cherry Hill in Kelowna, all of which are organic.
Enjoy and have a beautiful day all!
Love,
Crum