As the sun rises and the world stirs awake, there’s a particular joy in creating something special for breakfast. Just the other day, I found myself craving a quick yet exciting meal that could shake up my morning routine. That’s when I decided to explore a delightful fusion: the Kimchi Cream Cheese Bagel. The creamy, tangy spread of cream cheese blended with the spicy kick of kimchi is a match made in heaven! Topping it off with sautéed spinach adds a fresh touch that makes every bite a little celebration.
This dish isn’t merely about breakfast; it’s an experience that awakens the senses. The contrast of textures—smooth creaminess against crunchy sesame seeds atop a chewy bagel—creates a flavor explosion you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or simply elevate your own breakfast game, this quick Korean-inspired meal offers delicious versatility. Let’s dive into the delicious details of this unique recipe that promises to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why is the Kimchi Cream Cheese Bagel a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous brunches.
Flavor Fusion: The unique blend of creamy cream cheese and spicy kimchi offers a tantalizing contrast that’s sure to wake up your taste buds.
Healthy Twist: Packed with fresh spinach and wholesome ingredients, it’s a nutritious choice that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
Versatile Options: Customize it easily with extra toppings like avocado or a poached egg for an even heartier meal.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve this dish at your next gathering, and watch as guests rave about this fun, flavorful breakfast innovation!
Kimchi Cream Cheese Bagel Ingredients
• Get ready to elevate your breakfast!
For the Spread
- Cream Cheese – The star of the show, providing a creamy base; switch to low-fat or dairy-free for a lighter option.
- Kimchi – Adds a delightful umami kick; choose your preferred heat level or substitute with summer vegetables for a milder taste.
- Green Onions – Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor; use chives or shallots as alternatives if you prefer.
- Soy Sauce – Injects saltiness and depth into the spread; swap with tamari for a gluten-free version.
For the Sautéed Spinach
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Provides richness and helps sauté the spinach; avocado oil is a fantastic substitute for a different flavor.
- Baby Spinach – Offers a fresh earthy taste; kale or arugula make excellent alternatives.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances all flavors; adjust according to your taste.
For Assembly
- Sesame Bagel – The perfect base for this creation, providing a chewy texture; you can replace it with whole-grain or gluten-free bagels.
- Butter (optional) – Adds richness when spreading; skip it for a lighter dish or opt for vegan butter.
- Toasted White Sesame Seeds – Sprinkles of crunch and nutty flavor; replace with black sesame seeds or omit if unavailable.
This Kimchi Cream Cheese Bagel recipe is a beautiful blend of flavors and textures that will surely brighten your mornings!
How to Make Kimchi Cream Cheese Bagel
-
Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat; add extra-virgin olive oil and let it warm for about 1 minute. This helps create a lovely base for the sautéed spinach.
-
Sauté the baby spinach in the skillet, cooking until it reduces in size and is tender, about 2-3 minutes. Season with kosher salt to taste for that perfect balance of flavors.
-
Mix in a bowl room-temperature cream cheese, half of the chopped kimchi, half of the green onions, and soy sauce. Combine thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes.
-
Toast the sesame bagel halves until golden brown, roughly 3-5 minutes. If you’re feeling indulgent, spread butter on them right after to enjoy that extra richness.
-
Assemble by spreading the kimchi cream cheese mixture generously over the toasted bagels. Top with the sautéed spinach, sprinkle the remaining green onions, and garnish with toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately to savor the vibrant flavors!
Optional: Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Kimchi Cream Cheese Bagel
- Room Temperature Spread: Let cream cheese sit out for about 30 minutes before mixing to make spreading easier and creamier.
- Spinach Perfection: Sauté spinach just until wilted; overcooking can lead to a soggy texture, which you want to avoid.
- Personalize Your Heat: Adjust the amount of kimchi to suit your taste—the richer the flavor, the better it melds with the cream cheese spread.
- Bagel Toasting: Keep an eye on the bagel while toasting; golden brown is the goal for that perfect chewy texture in your Kimchi Cream Cheese Bagel.
- Make-Ahead Ease: Prepare the cream cheese mixture up to three days in advance; just remember to store it in an airtight container in the fridge for freshness.
Make Ahead Options
These Kimchi Cream Cheese Bagels are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the kimchi cream cheese mixture up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Sauté the spinach and set it aside in a separate container for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy your bagels, simply toast the bagel halves and spread the chilled kimchi cream cheese mix over them, followed by the sautéed spinach. This method ensures that you have a delicious, quick breakfast ready in minutes, without sacrificing flavor or quality!
How to Store and Freeze Kimchi Cream Cheese Bagel
Fridge: Store any leftover Kimchi Cream Cheese mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s sealed well to keep flavors fresher for longer.
Freezer: The cream cheese mixture can be frozen for up to 1 month. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and thaw it in the fridge overnight before reusing.
Bagel Storage: Keep toasted bagels at room temperature for up to 1 day in a paper bag to maintain crispiness. If you need to store longer, place them in a resealable plastic bag to avoid stale bread.
Reheating: If you’ve refrigerated or frozen the bagel, toast it again when ready to serve to regain its lovely crunch. Heat the cream cheese mixture gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to warm it up before spreading.
Kimchi Cream Cheese Bagel Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with some fun twists!
-
Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based cream cheese option for a lighter spread that’s equally creamy.
-
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha for an extra heat boost that wakes up your palate.
-
Greens Galore: Swap in sautéed bok choy or collard greens for a different flavor profile while keeping it nutritious.
-
Protein-Packed: Top with a poached egg for a lavish addition that brings rich flavors and satiates morning hunger.
-
Sweet & Savory: Drizzle a bit of honey over the cream cheese mix before adding kimchi for an enticing sweet twist that balances perfectly.
-
Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or dill into the cream cheese for a fragrant, herbal touch that brightens every bite.
-
Crunchy Texture: Add crushed nuts like peanuts or walnuts for an unexpected crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess.
Get ready to master this recipe and cater it to your family’s unique tastes!
What to Serve with Kimchi Cream Cheese Bagel?
A delightful breakfast can be even better with the perfect sides to complement its unique flavors.
-
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits offer a refreshing contrast to the savory bagel, balancing flavors beautifully. Pineapple or oranges can add a zesty note that dances on your palate.
-
Light Caesar Salad: Crisp greens with a tangy dressing provide a crunchy texture that pairs well with the creamy spread. The anchovy notes enhance the umami kick from the kimchi.
-
Savory Yogurt Parfait: Layered with granola and honey, this creamy delight brings sweetness and crunch, rounding out your breakfast experience. Add some berries for an extra pop of color and flavor!
-
Matcha Latte: This delightful green tea drink adds a warm, earthy note that complements the kimchi’s spice. There’s something comforting about sipping a customizable, creamy beverage alongside your meal.
-
Korean-Inspired Pickles: A side of tangy, fermented vegetables will enhance the Korean flavors already present in the bagel. They add crunch and a nice acidity that brightens every bite.
-
Sesame Oil Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed and seasoned with sesame oil, this broccoli dish is not only healthy but also mirrors the nutty notes of the bagel topping.
Each side not only enhances the experience but also encourages your taste buds to explore and celebrate the wonderful fusion of flavors your Kimchi Cream Cheese Bagel brings to the table!
Kimchi Cream Cheese Bagel Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best kimchi for my Kimchi Cream Cheese Bagel?
Absolutely! When selecting kimchi, look for fresh, crunchy varieties with a flavorful profile. The fermentation process should be evident with a tangy aroma but not overly sour. If you prefer milder flavors, opt for less spicy options or even pickled vegetables for a similar crunch without the heat.
How should I store leftover Kimchi Cream Cheese mixture?
Very! After enjoying your Kimchi Cream Cheese Bagel, you can store any leftover mixture in an airtight container in the fridge. It will maintain its best quality for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, make sure the lid is airtight and avoid exposing it to air frequently.
Can I freeze the Kimchi Cream Cheese mixture?
Of course! To freeze the mixture, portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable plastic bags. Ensure the bags are vacuum-sealed to prevent freezer burn, then label them with the date. This mixture can be preserved for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to use it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight, then gently mix before spreading.
What if my bagels get too soft after storage?
The more the merrier! To keep your toasted bagels from becoming too soft, be sure to store them at room temperature in a paper bag for up to 1 day. If they need to stay longer, you can wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in the fridge. For reheating, crisp them up in a toaster or oven, which brings back their delightful chewiness.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! For those with dairy allergies, you can swap the cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative, which can be just as creamy. Additionally, ensure the kimchi does not contain any fish or shellfish if you are serving this to someone with allergies. If you’re concerned about gluten, use tamari instead of soy sauce and opt for gluten-free bagels.
How can I add protein to my Kimchi Cream Cheese Bagel?
Very! For a delicious twist, consider adding a poached or fried egg on top of your Kimchi Cream Cheese Bagel. This not only boosts the protein content but also adds an amazing richness that pairs perfectly with the tangy, spicy flavors of the spread. Simply cook the egg to your preferred doneness and place it atop the assembled bagel for a hearty breakfast delight!
Kimchi Cream Cheese Bagel
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat; add extra-virgin olive oil and let it warm for about 1 minute.
- Sauté the baby spinach in the skillet until it reduces in size and is tender, about 2-3 minutes. Season with kosher salt.
- Mix cream cheese, half of the chopped kimchi, half of the green onions, and soy sauce in a bowl until smooth.
- Toast the sesame bagel halves until golden brown, roughly 3-5 minutes. Spread butter if desired.
- Assemble by spreading the kimchi cream cheese mixture over the toasted bagels, topping with sautéed spinach, remaining green onions, and sesame seeds.