HOMEMADE BAGEL CHIPS WITH CREAMY GARLIC AND VEGETABLE SPREAD

Steps:

• Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
• With a sharp knife, very carefully slice the bagels one at a time as thinly as possible, for 8 to 10 thin slices per bagel. Spread in 1 layer on the prepared sheets.
• Heat the oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. When oil starts to get warm, about 1 minute, remove from the heat and add the garlic and Essence. Let sit until the garlic perfumes the oil, about 10 minutes. Remove the garlic from the oil.
• With a pastry brush, lightly brush the oil on the bagel chips. Bake until golden brown. Turn and bake on the second side until just crisp, about 5 minutes. Remove from the oven and cool on wire racks.
• To serve, arrange the bagel chips on a platter with the creamy garlic and vegetable spread.
• Combine all ingredients thoroughly and store in an airtight jar or container.
• Recipe from "New New Orleans Cooking", by Emeril Lagasse and Jessie Tirsch. Published by William and Morrow, 1993.
• In a bowl, cream together the cream cheese and sour cream. Add the remaining ingredients and mix well. Adjust the seasoning, to taste.
• Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. Bring to room temperature before serving. (The spread will keep for 3 days refrigerated.)