Sourdough bagels are a delightful twist on the classic breakfast treat, offering a tangy flavor with a chewy texture. They’re perfect for pairing with various spreads or enjoying on their own.
Why You’ll Love This Sourdough Bagels:
This sourdough bagel recipe combines the rich flavors of traditional bagels with the unique tanginess of sourdough. They’re satisfyingly chewy and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup active sourdough starter
- 1 cup warm water
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp honey (optional, for boiling)
- Toppings of your choice (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, etc.)
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Instructions:
- Mixing the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter and warm water.
- Add the bread flour, sugar, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise at room temperature for 4-6 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shaping the Bagels:
- Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal portions.
- Shape each portion into a ball, then poke a hole in the center with your finger.
- Gently stretch and shape the dough to form a bagel shape. Place on a lightly floured surface and cover with a towel.
- Second Rise:
- Let the shaped bagels rise for another 1-2 hours, until slightly puffy.
- Boiling and Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add honey (optional).
- Boil the bagels, 2-3 at a time, for 1 minute per side.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Sprinkle with your choice of toppings.
- Baking:
- Bake the bagels for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool on a wire rack before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
Enjoy your sourdough bagels warm with cream cheese, smoked salmon, or your favorite jam. They also make excellent sandwiches for lunch.
How to Store Sourdough Bagels:
Store cooled bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Additional Tips:
- For a richer flavor, you can let the dough rise overnight in the refrigerator after the initial rise.
- Experiment with different toppings like everything bagel seasoning or dried herbs for variety.
