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Happy YASSSletter Thursday Gingis!

Did you all know that Zikki and I actually live in the heart of NY’s original bagel scene? Yep! The LES in NYC is where the bagel boom began right before the start of WW1 as the first wave of Jewish immigrants came over from Eastern Europe. Honestly this treat has the COOLest history of all time (read about it below!) In addition to our sexy history lesson, this week we’ve got 2 recipes for you to try at home + a free bagel giveaway!

As without further ado, let’s dive deep into the world of NEW YORK CITY BAGELS!!! On the agenda today is:

1. 📜 History + Origin Story: The New York Bagel

2. 🗽 New York Everything Bagel Recipe

3. 🥯 Pumpernickel Bagel Recipe

4. 🎁 Discount Code: Pop Up Bagel (voted the BEST bagel in town - Literally!)// Shout YASSS and get a free bagel at Pop Up!

📜 History + Origin: The New York Bagel

I have to tell you all - this is the most fascinating and unexpected history of a baked good I have researched in a long time! This now obvious Sunday morning breakfast choice was born from grueling conditions & perfectionism!

In the early 20th century, New York City's bagel production took place in underground bakeries under harsh conditions. PICTURE THIS: Jewish bakers, stripped down and sweating profusely, worked with boiling water and coal-fired ovens, with cats swiping at inch-long cockroaches amidst flour piles.

The New York bagel has always been revered for its unique qualities that arguably couldn’t be replicated by machines. Its tough dough required a highly skilled human touch. A perfect storm of harsh conditions, high demand, and needed experience allowed the bagel baker’s to unionize. Enter, Bagel Bakers Local 338 Union. Entrance required a family connection and six month apprenticeship to insure quality, expertise, and protection of tradition.

Hundreds of thousands of Jewish migrants came to New York City before World War I, and open numerous Jewish bakeries on the Lower East Side, serving their communities with challah, rye bread, and bagels. The exact origin story of the bagel has several theories, but a known fact is that the bagel gained popularity among Jewish communities in Eastern Europe between the 17th & 18th century. It was often consumed as a staple food due to its long shelf life and portability, making it suitable for Sabbath observance and travel.

Skip forward a hundred years to present day. The bagel union doesn’t exist and the grueling conditions have come to an end with modern day technology - but the bagel has persisted as the most important weekend treat - feeding and satiating the whole family. Although there was lapse in craftsmanship, when the machines took over - artisan bagels are back and PROUD!

🗽 New York Everything Bagel

Yo Gingis, get ready to indulge in a breakfast tradition that screams "New York" louder than the honking taxis and bustling streets. We're talking about the iconic New York bagel with everything topping! This is our go-to casual breakfast that never fails to satisfy our cravings. From the moment you sink your teeth into that perfectly chewy, golden exterior, you'll be transported to bagel heaven. Picture this: a fresh-out-of-the-oven bagel, lovingly hand-rolled and boiled to perfection, boasting a delightfully crisp crust and a fluffy interior that's just begging to be devoured.

🥯 Pumpernick Bagel

Hi Gingis, get ready for a mouthwatering adventure with some killer pumpernickel bagels! Trust me, the combo of rye, molasses, and chewiness is pure magic. Now, let's dig into a bit of history, shall we? Pumpernickel bagels have their roots in Germany, where they first emerged as a regional specialty in Westphalia. The name "pumpernickel" is derived from the German words "pumpern" (meaning flatulence) and "Nickel" (a nickname for the devil). Legend has it that this quirky name was given due to the bread's reputation for being heavy and hard to digest. But trust me, the taste more than makes up for any potential digestive challenges!

🎁 Shout YASSS for a FREE bagel at POP UP Bagel!

Gingis, for this special New York Bagel edition we wanted to partner up with our absolute favorite bagel in the city - POP UP Bagel, winner of last year’s Brooklyn Bagel Fest! Adam, the owner of POP UP bagel has given us a very cool YASSS discount for our community. Use the code YASSS for a 10% discount on your online order OR if you find yourself up at POP UP BAGEL in Greenwich this June, make sure to shout YASSS in the store to receive a FREE BAGEL! 

*This discount is only for the month of June! ❤️

Hope you have a weekend full of YASSS! Until next Thursday Gingis.

Love, Ben & Zikki xx

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#WeAreAllBREAD