# Ingredient List:
→ Dough
01 - 4 cups bread flour, plus extra for dusting
02 - 2¼ teaspoons instant dry yeast
03 - 1½ teaspoons fine sea salt
04 - 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
05 - 1¼ cups warm water (approximately 105°F)
→ Poaching Water
06 - 8 cups water
07 - 1 tablespoon baking soda
08 - 1 tablespoon sugar
→ Toppings (optional)
09 - 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
10 - 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
11 - 2 tablespoons dried onion flakes
12 - 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash; optional)
# Directions:
01 - Combine bread flour, instant dry yeast, fine sea salt, and granulated sugar in a large bowl. Add warm water and stir until a dough forms.
02 - Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
03 - Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a cloth, and allow to rise until doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.
04 - Deflate dough and divide into 8 equal portions. Roll each into a ball, then create a hole through the center and gently stretch to form the traditional bagel shape.
05 - Arrange bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with a towel, and let rest for 15 minutes.
06 - Set oven temperature to 425°F and allow to preheat fully.
07 - Bring 8 cups of water to a boil in a large pot; add baking soda and sugar and stir to dissolve.
08 - Carefully lower 2 to 3 bagels at a time into the simmering water and boil for 45 seconds on each side. Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to the baking sheet.
09 - Brush bagels with beaten egg wash and sprinkle with selected toppings, or use water for a vegan alternative.
10 - Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack before serving.
