Proper Storage
Storing your bagel properly is the first step toward ensuring that it’ll reheat. I generally leave most hearty breads in a paper bag or a bread box at room temperature, as the refrigerator can actually hasten staling. A bagel, on the other hand, I actually prefer to keep in the fridge, because we’ll be taking steps to fix staling issues down the line. I store my bagels in a sealed zipper-lock bag in the refrigerator.
For longer-term storage, the freezer is your friend. Wrap individual bagels tightly in aluminum foil (it’s more airtight than plastic wrap) and freeze them for up to a month or so. Any longer, and you’ll run the risk of freezer burn. Let frozen bagels defrost in their foil packages, at room temperature, for a few hours before toasting. That, or maybe I just needed an excuse to have some good New York bagels overnighted to me.
