Trader Joe's Everything but the Bagel seasoning is remarkably clean with no problematic ingredients, containing only seeds, salt, and dried aromatics. The DIY version upgrades to certified organic ingredients while maintaining the perfect balance of nutty sesame, savory garlic and onion, and mineral-rich sea salt. No seed oil substitutions needed - this product is already seed oil free.
Based on: Everything but the Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend
· Makes approximately 40 servings
· Serving: 0.25 tsp (1g)
Why This Recipe is Seed Oil Free
Commercial Everything but the Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend from Trader Joe's often contains inflammatory seed oils like canola, soybean, or sunflower oil. This homemade version replaces them with healthier fats like butter, ghee, coconut oil, or avocado oil — giving you the same great taste without the processed oils.
The original Everything but the Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend may also contain artificial dyes. Check it on DyeFreeCheck to find out.
Ingredients
Organic white sesame seeds
15g (about 2 tablespoons) · Simply Organic White Sesame Seeds
Provides the nutty, toasted base flavor and primary texture component of the blend.
Organic sea salt flakes
10g (about 1.5 tablespoons) · Redmond Real Salt Ancient Fine Sea Salt
Delivers the essential salty component and mineral complexity that makes everything taste better.
Provides subtle nutty flavor and distinctive tiny black specks for authentic everything bagel appearance.
Instructions
Step 1. Measure all ingredients precisely using a digital scale for best results. The balance is crucial - too much salt overwhelms, too little garlic makes it bland. If you don't have a scale, use the volume measurements but pack dried ingredients lightly into measuring spoons.
Step 2. Combine the white sesame seeds (15g) and black sesame seeds (2g) in a dry skillet over medium-low heat. Toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the white sesame seeds turn light golden and become fragrant. This step intensifies the nutty flavor and prevents the seeds from tasting raw. Remove from heat immediately when you smell the toasted aroma to prevent burning.
Step 3. Let the toasted sesame seeds cool completely, about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, measure the dried minced garlic (7g), dried minced onion (5g), sea salt flakes (10g), and poppy seeds (1g) into a medium mixing bowl. The garlic and onion pieces should be roughly the same size - if yours are larger chunks, pulse briefly in a spice grinder.
Step 4. Add the cooled toasted sesame seeds to the bowl with the other ingredients. Using a fork or small whisk, toss everything together thoroughly for 1-2 minutes until evenly distributed. You should see even color distribution with no clumps of salt or garlic. The mixture should look speckled with black and white seeds throughout.
Step 5. Transfer the blend to an airtight glass jar or spice container. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds to ensure final mixing. Store in a cool, dark pantry away from heat and moisture. The blend will stay fresh for 6-8 months, though the garlic and onion flavors are most vibrant in the first 3 months.
Step 6. To use: Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon (1g) on avocado toast, eggs, roasted vegetables, salads, or anywhere you want that everything bagel flavor. For even distribution on foods, apply the seasoning while the surface is slightly moist (like on buttered toast or oiled vegetables before roasting). A little goes a long way due to the concentrated salt and garlic content.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for 6-8 months. Avoid moisture and heat which can cause clumping and flavor loss.
Cost Comparison
Cost per serving (homemade)$0.046
Cost per serving (store-bought)$0.125
Savings63%
High upfront cost for organic ingredients pays off quickly with bulk quantities. Each bottle/bag makes multiple batches, making the per-serving cost very economical long-term. The quality upgrade to certified organic ingredients justifies the initial investment.