By Dr. Jorge, Ph.D.
What’s the difference: New York bagel vs. Montreal bagel? What’s so special about a New York bagel?
New York bagels and Montreal bagels have some key differences. Most notably, Montreal bagels are sweeter, smaller, and denser, with a larger hole than a New York bagel. Ingredient-wise, New York bagels include salt while Montreal bagels traditionally do not, contributing to the savory quality of NY bagels and the sweeter profile of Montreal bagels. The two also differ in cooking style — New York bagels are boiled in barley malt water before being baked in a conventional oven, while Montreal bagels are boiled in a honey water mixture and traditionally baked in a wood-fired oven.
New York bagels, like Wildgrain’s New York Everything Bagels, are largely considered special for their unique chewy texture, which is achieved through a slow, cold fermentation process and boiling in a barley malt water solution before baking. Some also credit New York City's naturally soft tap water as a contributing factor, though this is widely debated and considered by many to be a minor influence at most.
What’s the difference: New York bagel vs. regular bagel?
The main difference between New York bagels and regular store-bought bagels is that New York bagels undergo a boiling step prior to baking, whereas most store-bought bagels skip this step entirely. Boiling the bagel before baking is what gives New York bagels their signature chewy texture and shiny crust. Store-bought bagels, by contrast, are typically steamed or baked directly, resulting in a softer, more bread-like texture.
Which is healthier to eat, New York bagel or Montreal bagel?
Whether a New York bagel or Montreal bagel is healthier ultimately depends on the specific bagel, including its size and the type of flour it is made with. Bagels made with whole grain or whole wheat flour are a more nutritious option than those made with refined white flour. From a calorie and carbohydrate perspective, size plays a significant role, and Montreal bagels, being smaller and denser, tend to be lower in calories than the larger New York bagel. Those watching their sodium intake may also prefer Montreal bagels like Wildgrain’s Wood-Fired Plain Bagels, as they are traditionally made without salt. As with any food, checking the nutrition label is the best way to determine which option best fits your dietary needs.
Is a gluten-free bagel healthier than a regular bagel?
Gluten-free bagels are not necessarily healthier than regular bagels. Since gluten-free bagels are often made with refined starches such as tapioca, corn, and potato starch to mimic traditional textures, they can lack the nutritional benefits of bagels made with whole grain flour. Gluten-free options can also be higher in calories, fat, and sugar compared to traditional bagels. That said, gluten-free bagels such as Wildgrain’s Gluten-Free Slow-Fermented Plain Bagels are an essential option for those with celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity. As always, the best way to compare options and find the best bagel for your needs is to carefully check the nutrition label.
Which bagel is best for diabetics, New York bagel or Montreal bagel? Which bagel is better for diabetics, regular or gluten-free bagel?
For diabetics, the best bagel is one made with whole grain flour, as it is higher in fiber and lower on the glycemic index than bagels made with refined flour, helping to prevent blood sugar spikes. Whether choosing a New York bagel, Montreal bagel, or gluten-free bagel, the most important factor is the nutritional profile of the individual bagel rather than the style. Gluten-free bagels, while necessary for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, are often made with refined starches that can cause blood sugar levels to rise quickly, making them a less ideal choice for diabetics unless made with whole grain or high-fiber ingredients. To be sure you’re choosing the healthiest bagel option for you, scan the nutrition label for fiber, carbohydrate, and sugar content.
Which bagel is best for weight loss, New York bagel or Montreal bagel or regular bagel or gluten-free bagel?
Like the best bagel for diabetics, the best bagel for weight loss is one made from whole grains, as the higher fiber content helps you feel full for longer and can prevent overeating. Since weight loss depends on the balance between calories consumed and calories burned, being mindful of the calorie content of your bagel of choice is important. From a calorie standpoint, Montreal bagels have a natural advantage over New York bagels due to their typical smaller size, while gluten-free bagels can sometimes be higher in calories than traditional options due to the refined starches used. That said, if you have a preference for one bagel style over another, you can still enjoy it by cutting the bagel in half or choosing a lighter, nutrient-dense topping like peanut butter or avocado.
Do bagels have high histamine? Are gluten-free bagels high in histamine?
Traditional bagels are generally not considered high in histamine, though it is worth noting that yeast, a common ingredient in bagels, can contribute to histamine levels in the body. Gluten-free bagels will vary in histamine levels depending on their ingredients, and like traditional bagels, those made with yeast may be a concern for individuals with histamine intolerance. For those managing histamine intolerance, checking the ingredients list carefully and consulting a doctor or dietitian is always recommended.
Is it healthy to eat bagels every day? Is it ok to eat bagels every day? Can I eat a bagel every day and lose weight?
It can be healthy to eat bagels every day if they are enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. As with any food, the key to an overall healthy and nutritious diet is to incorporate a variety of foods in moderation. You can still eat a bagel every day and lose weight, provided you remain mindful of your overall calorie intake and choose bagels made with whole grain flour for added fiber and nutritional value. Opting for lighter toppings and watching portion sizes can also help make your daily bagel a more weight-loss-friendly choice.
How do I choose a great bagel for home delivery? What is the best bagel that I can get at home?
To choose a great bagel for home delivery, it is important to be selective about the source and quality of the bagels you order. The best bagels you can get at home are those baked fresh by a specialized bakery and delivered straight to your door. Wildgrain makes this easy, offering bagels like Wildgrain’s New York Bagels that are crafted by skilled bakers and frozen at peak freshness, so all you need to do is bake them straight from frozen for a fresh-tasting bagel at home.
Where can I buy the best fresh bagels online for home delivery?
At Wildgrain, we specialize in making high-quality, fresh baked goods that are delivered directly to your door. Wildgrain is the first bake-from-frozen delivery subscription service for breads, pastries, and fresh pastas. Some of our popular breads and bagels include Wildgrain's Wood-Fired Plain Bagels, Wildgrain's Wood-Fired Cinnamon Raisin Bagels, Wildgrain’s New York Bagels, and Wildgrain’s Gluten-Free Slow-Fermented Plain Bagels. Learn more about Wildgrain and our artisanal baking and cooking methods.
About the Author
This content is for informational use only and does not replace professional nutrition and/or medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is not a substitute for and should not be relied upon for specific nutrition and/or medical recommendations. Please talk with your doctor about any questions or concerns.
