New York Style Bagels
Let's Get Rolling!
Bagels are a beloved staple in our household, always sitting fresh on the counter in batches of eight. These versatile treats can be enjoyed in various ways, from a simple breakfast with cream cheese to a gourmet lunch with smoked salmon and avocado.
Ingredients
485g Bread Flour or All-purpose
2 1/4 tsp Active Dry Yeast
1 tsp Salt
300g Luke Warm Water
1 tbsp Honey
Prep Day
To make our favorite bagels, start by combining warm water, honey, and yeast in a mixing bowl. After letting it sit for about five minutes until frothy, add flour and salt. Mix on low speed until combined, then knead on medium-high for another five minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
For the dough to rise perfectly, warm your microwave for two minutes. Shape the dough into a ball, lightly grease the mixing bowl, place the dough back in, cover it, and let it rise in the microwave for about 40 minutes or until doubled in size.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once the dough has risen, divide it into eight equal pieces, roll each piece into a ball, and create a hole in the center with your thumb, shaping them into bagels. Place the shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them rest while you prepare for boiling.
Fill a medium-sized pot with water, about 75% full, and bring it to a boil. Add one teaspoon of baking soda and one teaspoon of salt to the boiling water, being cautious as it may bubble up. Boil the bagels in batches of two, cooking each side for about 40 seconds. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them back on the baking sheet.
Beat one egg and brush the bagels lightly with the egg wash for a beautiful golden color. Add your favorite toppings such as sesame seeds, coarse salt, or poppy seeds for extra flavor and texture.
Bake the bagels on the middle rack of your preheated oven for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
To serve, slice the bagels in half and toast them until crisp. Enjoy with a variety of toppings, from simple spreads like cream cheese to more elaborate combinations like smoked salmon and avocado. These homemade bagels are not just delicious but also a healthy snack option for our little ones, ensuring they stay away from pre-packaged, processed foods. I hope your family enjoys this recipe as much as ours does!