Whole-Wheat Bagels

Ingredients

• 3 cups whole-wheat flour
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm water
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Toppings of your choice (sesame, poppy, garlic, etc.)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Add the warm water and oil. Stir until the dough comes together.
3. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8 minutes or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover with a damp cloth. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough and turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces.
6. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten it into a disk. Make sure the center is thicker than the edges.
7. Poke a hole in the center of each disk and pull it open until the hole is about 2 inches in diameter.
8. Place the bagels onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them rise for 30 minutes.
9. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
10. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the bagels. Boil for 1 minute on each side. Remove with a slotted spoon and place back on the baking sheet.
11. Sprinkle the bagels with your desired toppings.
12. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
13. Let the bagels cool on a wire rack before serving.

Interesting Facts

• Bagels originated in Poland, and the word bagel comes from the Yiddish word “beygl” which means “ring” or “bracelet”.
• Bagels are boiled before baking, which gives them their unique texture and flavor.
• Whole-wheat bagels are a great source of dietary fiber and other important nutrients.