There’s nothing quite like the chewy texture and delectable aroma of freshly baked bagels, especially when they are made from scratch in the comfort of your own kitchen. Today, we’re diving into the wonderful world of sourdough bagels. These tangy, hearty delights are a treat for your taste buds and are surprisingly simple to make. Embrace the art of traditional bread making with this Homemade Sourdough Bagel Recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter
– 1 cup lukewarm water
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 3 ½ cups bread flour
– 1 ½ teaspoons salt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Water for boiling
– Toppings of your choice (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything bagel seasoning, etc.)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the active sourdough starter, lukewarm water, and granulated sugar. Stir until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Add the bread flour and salt to the bowl. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix the ingredients until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Shape the dough into a ball and place it back into the mixing bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise at room temperature for about 2-3 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air bubbles. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Use your thumb to poke a hole through the center of each ball and gently stretch it to form a bagel shape.
6. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bring a large pot of water to a gentle boil. Stir in the honey.
7. Boil the bagels, a few at a time, for 1-2 minutes per side. The longer you boil them, the chewier they will be. Remove the bagels with a slotted spoon and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
8. Sprinkle the bagels with your favorite toppings while they are still wet from boiling.
9. Bake the bagels in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and have a slightly crispy crust.
10. Allow the bagels to cool on a wire rack before slicing and enjoying them with your favorite spreads or as the base for a delicious sandwich.
By following these simple steps, you’ll have a batch of Homemade Sourdough Bagels that are sure to impress your family and friends. The tangy flavor of the sourdough combined with the chewy texture of the bagels makes them a delightful addition to any meal or snack time. Experiment with different toppings and enjoy the satisfaction of creating bakery-quality treats right in your own kitchen. Embrace the joy of baking and the warmth of homemade goodness with this irresistible recipe.
