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This homemade spinach cottage cheese flagel recipe transforms simple ingredients into bakery-worthy flat bagels with minimal effort. These protein-packed breakfast treats have become my go-to solution for busy mornings when I need something substantial but don't have time for complicated recipes.
I developed this recipe during a particularly hectic week when I needed portable breakfast options. The first batch disappeared so quickly that I now double the recipe every time I make them.
Ingredients
- Cottage cheese: Adds moisture and protein while creating a tender texture
- Flour: Provides structure without making the flagels too dense
- Baking powder: Creates lift without needing yeast
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the savory notes
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps achieve a golden exterior
- Baby spinach: Incorporates vegetables while adding minimal flavor for picky eaters
- Mozzarella cheese: Creates pockets of melty goodness throughout
- Egg wash: Gives these flagels their beautiful shine and color
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Workspace:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This temperature creates the perfect balance of browning the outside while fully cooking the inside.
- Process The Cottage Cheese:
- Pulse cottage cheese in a food processor until completely smooth. This crucial step eliminates the curds and ensures your flagels have a consistent texture throughout.
- Mix The Dough:
- Combine the smooth cottage cheese with flour, baking powder, salt, olive oil, finely chopped spinach, and mozzarella in a large bowl. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough flagels. The dough will feel slightly sticky but workable.
- Shape The Flagels:
- Form the dough into a thick log approximately 6 inches long, then divide it into 6 equal pieces. Flatten each piece into a circle about half an inch thick, then use your finger to poke a hole through the center, gently widening it to create the classic bagel shape.
- Bake To Perfection:
- Brush each flagel with egg wash for that beautiful golden finish, then bake for 22-25 minutes. Look for a golden brown color on top as your indicator of doneness. Transfer to a wire rack immediately to prevent soggy bottoms.
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The spinach in this recipe holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of my grandmother who would always find creative ways to incorporate vegetables into our meals. She would have loved how these flagels manage to be both nutritious and delicious without feeling like health food.
Storage Solutions
These flagels stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap each cooled flagel individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag where they'll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or toast from frozen for a quick breakfast. The texture remains remarkably good even after freezing, unlike many homemade bread products that can become gummy.
Simple Substitutions
This adaptable recipe welcomes many variations based on what you have available. Replace the spinach with other finely chopped vegetables like kale, bell peppers, or grated zucchini (just squeeze out excess moisture first). The mozzarella can be swapped for any melting cheese such as cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack for a spicy kick. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based cottage cheese alternatives and your favorite non-dairy shredded cheese. The olive oil can be substituted with melted butter or avocado oil based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
While delicious on their own, these flagels reach new heights when split and toasted. Top with smashed avocado and a poached egg for a satisfying breakfast. For lunch, use as sandwich bread with turkey, lettuce, and tomato. Create a breakfast sandwich with scrambled eggs and a slice of cheese. For a sweet version, try them with a smear of cream cheese and a drizzle of honey. The slightly savory base creates an interesting contrast with sweet toppings that keeps things interesting.
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These spinach flagels are a simple yet satisfying way to start your day with protein, vegetables, and a homemade touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour to make these flagels gluten-free.
- → What can I use instead of a mini food processor?
If you don't have a mini food processor, you can use a standard blender or even a whisk to smooth the cottage cheese.
- → How should I store leftover flagels?
Store leftover flagels in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh for up to three days.
- → Can I substitute another cheese for mozzarella?
Yes, shredded cheddar or another melting cheese can be used in place of mozzarella for a different flavor.
- → How long should I bake the flagels?
Bake the flagels in a preheated oven at 375℉ for 22-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown on top.
- → Can I add extra seasonings to the dough?
Absolutely, feel free to add herbs like parsley or spices like garlic powder to enhance the flavor of the flagels.