Ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- 4 cups bread flour (plus extra for kneading)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- For Boiling:
- 2 quarts water
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- For the Topping:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried onions, coarse salt, etc.
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Make the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir until a dough forms.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Bagels:
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball.
- Poke a hole through the center of each ball with your finger, then gently stretch the hole to about 2 inches in diameter. Place the shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet and cover with a damp cloth. Let them rest for 10-15 minutes.
- Boil the Bagels:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large pot, bring 2 quarts of water to a boil and add the 2 tablespoons of sugar.
- Gently lower a few bagels into the boiling water, cooking them for 1 minute on each side. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bagels and place them back on the baking sheet.
- Bake the Bagels:
- Brush each boiled bagel with the beaten egg to give them a shiny finish. Add any desired toppings.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bagels are golden brown.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
Enjoy your homemade bagels fresh from the oven! They are perfect with cream cheese, butter, or any of your favorite toppings.
