Ingredients
- 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
- 4 1/2 cups bread flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon cornmeal or semolina
- 1 egg white
- 1 tablespoon water
- Optional toppings: sesame, poppy, dried onion, garlic, etc.
Directions
- In a large bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let stand for 5 minutes.
- Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough for 8 to 10 minutes, or until it's smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise for 1 hour.
- Punch down the dough, and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, and poke a hole in the center with your finger.
- Let the bagels rest for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Drop the bagels, one at a time, into the boiling water. Boil for 1 minute on each side, then remove with a slotted spoon. Place the bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg white and water. Brush the egg wash over the bagels, and sprinkle with desired toppings.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack before serving.
Interesting Facts
- Bagels are a popular type of bread found in many cultures around the world.
- The traditional shape of a bagel is a circle with a hole in the middle.
- Bagels can be topped with a variety of ingredients, such as sesame, poppy, and dried onion or garlic.
- Bagels are often served with cream cheese, lox, or other toppings.
