Introduction
Bagels are a delicious and popular breakfast item that originated in Jewish communities. Making bagels at home can be a fun and rewarding experience. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make bagels from scratch in 2023.
Ingredients
Dough:
– 4 cups of bread flour
– 2 teaspoons of instant yeast
– 2 teaspoons of salt
– 1 ½ cups of warm water
– 2 tablespoons of honey
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
Boiling Solution:
– 4 quarts of water
– ¼ cup of honey
– 1 tablespoon of baking soda
Toppings:
– Sesame seeds
– Poppy seeds
– Everything bagel seasoning
– Salt
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
Start by combining the bread flour, instant yeast, and salt in a large mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, mix the warm water, honey, and olive oil. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients while stirring with a wooden spoon. Once the dough comes together, knead it on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
2. Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Allow it to rise in a warm and draft-free area for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size. This step is crucial as it helps develop the bagels’ texture and flavor.
3. Shape the Bagels
After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and use your thumb to make a hole in the center. Gently stretch the hole to about 2 inches in diameter, ensuring the bagel maintains its shape. Repeat this process with the remaining dough portions.
4. Boil the Bagels
In a large pot, bring the water, honey, and baking soda to a boil. Carefully drop the bagels into the boiling solution, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Boil each side for about 1 minute, then remove them using a slotted spoon and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Add Toppings
Before baking the bagels, you can customize their toppings. Sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or salt on top of each bagel. Press the toppings gently to ensure they adhere to the dough.
6. Bake the Bagels
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the bagels for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Make sure to rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time to ensure even browning.
7. Cool and Enjoy
Once the bagels are baked, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your homemade bagels plain or with your favorite spreads such as cream cheese, butter, or jam.
Conclusion
Making bagels at home can be a delightful experience, especially in 2023. By following these simple steps, you can create delicious homemade bagels that will impress your family and friends. Experiment with different toppings and flavors to personalize your bagels. Happy baking!
