Classic American Bagels Recipe for 4 People
Ingredients:
- 4 cups bread flour
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 1/4 cups warm water
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything bagel seasoning
Instructions:
- Prepare Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine bread flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt.
- Gradually add warm water and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Shape Bagels:
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal portions.
- Roll each portion into a ball, then use your thumb to poke a hole through the center.
- Gently stretch the hole to form a ring shape, ensuring the hole is at least 1 inch in diameter.
- Second Rise:
- Place the shaped bagels on a lightly floured or parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with a kitchen towel, and let them rise for another 20-30 minutes.
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Boil Bagels:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Carefully drop the bagels, 2-3 at a time, into the boiling water and boil for about 1 minute on each side.
- Egg Wash and Toppings:
- Remove the boiled bagels from the water and place them back on the baking sheet.
- Brush the tops of the bagels with beaten egg and sprinkle with your choice of toppings, such as sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning.
- Bake:
- Bake the bagels in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool and Enjoy:
- Allow the bagels to cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Optional:
- Serve with cream cheese, smoked salmon, or your favorite bagel toppings.
Indulge in the classic taste of homemade American Bagels with this recipe for 4 people!