Imagine waking up to the delightful aroma of freshly baked bialys wafting through your kitchen. These traditional Polish bread rolls are similar to bagels but with a unique indentation in the center filled with savory toppings like onions and poppy seeds. Bialys are perfect for a cozy weekend breakfast or a delicious addition to your brunch spread. Follow this simple recipe to create your own batch of homemade bialys that will impress your family and friends.
**Homemade Bialys**
**Ingredients:**
– 4 cups bread flour
– 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons salt
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Cornmeal (for dusting)
**Instructions:**
1. **Activate the Yeast:** In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. **Mix the Dough:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and salt. Slowly pour in the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. **First Rise:** Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
4. **Prepare the Toppings:** While the dough is rising, sauté the chopped onion in olive oil until it becomes translucent. Set it aside to cool and mix in the poppy seeds.
5. **Shape the Bialys:** Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten it into a disc shape. Place the discs on a baking sheet sprinkled with cornmeal.
6. **Add the Toppings:** Using your fingers, create a deep well in the center of each dough disc. Fill the well with a spoonful of the onion and poppy seed mixture.
7. **Second Rise:** Cover the bialys with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
8. **Preheat the Oven:** While the bialys are rising, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
9. **Bake the Bialys:** Once the bialys have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
10. **Serve and Enjoy:** Remove the bialys from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your homemade bialys warm with a spread of cream cheese or butter.
Creating your own bialys at home is a rewarding experience that will fill your kitchen with the enticing aroma of freshly baked bread. These flavorful rolls are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply treating yourself to a delicious breakfast. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake a batch of delightful bialys that will elevate your culinary skills and impress your loved ones.
