Bagels first appeared in Poland sometime between the 13th and 17th centuries. According to one story, they were invented by Jewish bakers who were banned from selling goods outside the Jewish community.

Today, bagels are among the most popular breakfast foods in the world. More than 60 percent of Americans say they eat a bagel for breakfast at least twice a week. Bagels have become so widely loved that they have even been sent into space.

What Makes the Bagel Unique

Unlike most varieties of bread, bagels are boiled before they are baked. Bakers shape the dough into rings before briefly boiling them in hot water. Then they bake the bagels until they are golden brown. This unique cooking method gives bagels their chewy texture and shiny crust. Some people believe that the idea of boiling the dough may have come from the traditional way of making pretzels.

How the Bagel Made Its Way to America

During the 1800s, many Polish Jewish immigrants moved to the United States and brought their favorite recipes with them. Bagels became especially popular in New York City. Over time, toppings such as cream cheese and smoked salmon helped make bagels an important part of New York food culture. Today, people enjoy them for breakfast, lunch, or a quick snack.