Famous for their melted cheese and creamy filling, tuna melts are a popular comfort food. Their delightful crunch and chewy texture elevate this meal to a whole new level when served on a bagel. This article has all the details you need to make mouthwatering tuna melt bagels, including a traditional recipe, bagel changes, and bagel perfection advice.
How to Make Bagels?
This baked good is quite easy to make since you only need 6 to 7 ingredients, plus the process is a piece of cake–perfect for beginners and first-time bagel bakers!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of flour for bread (all-purpose or bread flour)
- 1 spoonful of sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- 1 and a half cups (warm water)
- 2 and a quarter teaspoon of active dry yeast
- Your choice of toppings (nuts, seeds and so on.)
Directions:
Step 1: Mix the yeast, sugar, and warm water in a small bowl. Give it a good five to ten minutes to get foamy.
Step 2: Mix the flour and salt in a large mixing dish. Pour the vegetable oil and yeast mixture into the centre well that has been created.
Step 3: Stir until a dough forms. Until the dough is smooth and elastic, knead it for about ten minutes on a floured surface.
Step 4: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In the meantime, bring a large pot of water to a boil and reduce to a simmer. Carefully place bagels, 2-3 at a time, into the simmering water. Boil for 1-2 minutes per side, then remove with a slotted spoon back onto the baking sheet.
Step 5: Divide the dough into 8–10 equal-sized balls. Shape each ball into a smooth, round bagel shape by poking a hole in the centre and stretching it out slightly.
Step 6: Place shaped bagels on a baking sheet coated with grease or lined with parchment paper. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for about 20–30 minutes.
Step 7: While the bagels are still wet from boiling, you can top them with chosen toppings like nuts, seeds, dried fruits and berries–up to you!
Step 8: Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown, in a preheated oven. When ready to slice and serve, allow it to cool on a wire rack for a couple of minutes–then you’re done!
How to make a Classic Tuna Melt Bagel?
Now whip up some delicious tuna melt bagels using the bagels you’ve made! Below is everything you’ll be needing and how to make them:
Ingredients:
- 2 bagels
- 1 can of tuna (5 ounces is preferred–drained)
- 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 celery stalk (finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons of red onion (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley or dill (chopped)
- Salt and pepper
- 4 slices of any cheese of your choice
Directions:
Step 1: Turn on the Oven and set it to 375°F, or 190°C. This will facilitate the uniform melting of the cheese.
Step 2: To make the tuna salad, put the drained tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard (if using), sliced red onion, celery, and herbs in a medium-sized bowl. Blend thoroughly until every element is combined. To taste, add salt and pepper for seasoning.
Step 3: To put the bagels together, cut them in half, then arrange them cut-side up on a baking sheet. Evenly distribute the tuna salad mixture on each side of a bagel by generously spooning it on.
Step 4: Now it’s time to add the cheese. Cover the entire bagel half with two slices of cheese, covering the tuna salad. Afterwards, start baking it. Place the baking sheet with the bagels in the preheated oven for ten to fifteen minutes, or until the bagels are toasted and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Step 5: Once the oven is finished, garnish with sliced tomatoes, pickles, or avocado to provide some extra flavour and freshness. Then serve! Snack on hot tuna melt bagels with salad, soup, or chips on the side.
What are Some Tips for Making a Good Tuna Melt Bagel?
- Picking Bagels: For optimal effects, choose your preferred bagels and make sure they are fresh and of the highest calibre.
- Draining Tuna: You want a creamy yet firm consistency, so be sure to drain the tuna well to prevent a runny combination.
- Trying New Cheeses: Gouda, mozzarella, and blue cheese are some interesting possibilities to try if you’re looking for something different from the traditional cheddar and Swiss.
- Toasting to Create Texture: Before adding the cheese and tuna salad, toast the bagel halves to create a crispier texture.