Homemade Bagels

I didn’t do too much of anything during the holiday weekend (except do a lot of relaxing), and since my life (obviously) revolves around food, I decided to whip up something some-what All-American. I’ve had more than my fair share of sweets lately, so I choose a recipe that would serve as a great breakfast all weekend long. I’ve always wanted to make bagels – but was surprised at how simple they were to make. As long as you’ve got a couple hours to spare on the weekends, this recipe is delicious and makes eight bagels – just enough to have laying around for impromptu brunches.

Ingredients

2 tsp active dry yeast

1 1/2 tbsp granulated sugar

1 1/4 c warm water (105-110 degrees F)

3 1/2 c bread flour

1 1/2 tsp salt

Optional Toppings:
Poppy seeds + Sesame seeds

Recipe

In 1/2 c of the warm water, pour in the sugar and dry yeast. Do not stir. Let rest for about 5 minutes, until it foams up.

In a separate bowl, mix together flour and salt. Create a well in the center, and pour in the yeast mixture. Add the remaining water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and mix well. Continue to add water until dough is moist and firm. Remove dough from bowl and knead on countertop for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

Coat a large bowl with oil and place dough inside. Cover with a damp dishcloth, and allow dough to rise in a warm place for about an hour. Punch dough down once, and then allow to rise for another 10 minutes.

Boil a large pot of water and preheat oven to 425 degrees F.

Remove dough from bowl, and cut into eight equal sections. Applying a small amount of pressure, roll each piece of dough into a smooth, round ball. Coat a finger with flour, and create a hole in the center of each ball, about 1/3 size of the diameter of the ball. Place balls on a baking sheet, cover with a damp cloth, and allow to rest for another 10 minutes.

Reduce heat on boiling water. Using a slotted spoon, carefully dunk each bagel into the water. Once it rises to the top, allow it to soak on one side for a minute, flip over, and soak on other side for a minute. Then remove from heat and place on greased baking sheet.

Once all bagels have been boiled, brush with egg (if toppings are desired), and sprinkle on your toppings of choice at this point.

Bake bagels for about 20 minutes, until they have turned golden brown. Remove from oven and transfer to wire rack to cool.