Sourdough Bagels

Name: Sourdough Bagels
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 cups active sourdough starter; 4 cups bread flour; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 tablespoon salt; 1 cup warm water; 1 tablespoon baking soda (for boiling); Sesame seeds (for topping); Poppy seeds (for topping); Coarse salt (for topping)

Sourdough bagels are a delightful twist on the classic bagel, offering a unique flavor and chewy texture that is hard to resist. The combination of tangy sourdough and a crisp crust makes these bagels a favorite for breakfast or any time of day. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making your own sourdough bagels at home, ensuring a delicious result that will impress everyone at your table.

Ingredients

2 cups active sourdough starter
4 cups bread flour
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon salt
1 cup warm water
1 tablespoon baking soda (for boiling)
Sesame seeds (for topping)
Poppy seeds (for topping)
Coarse salt (for topping)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields 8 bagels. Preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, and cooking time is about 20 minutes, with additional proofing time.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 bagel) contains approximately:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 9g
– Carbohydrates: 50g
– Fat: 1g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

In a large bowl, mix the sourdough starter, warm water, and sugar until well combined.
Add the bread flour and salt to the mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it proof for 4-6 hours or until doubled in size.
Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
Shape each piece into a ball and use your thumb to poke a hole in the center, forming the bagel shape.
Place the shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them rest for 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add baking soda.
Boil each bagel for 1-2 minutes on each side, then return them to the baking sheet.
Sprinkle your desired toppings on the bagels before baking.
Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute bread flour with all-purpose flour, but the texture may be slightly different. Additionally, if you don’t have sourdough starter, you can use store-bought bagel dough for a quicker option.

Serving and Pairings

Sourdough bagels are perfect with cream cheese, avocado, or smoked salmon. They also pair well with a side of fresh fruit or a hot cup of coffee for a delightful breakfast or snack.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, toast directly from the freezer or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Cooking Mistakes

Using inactive sourdough starter will lead to dense bagels.
Over-kneading the dough can result in tough bagels.
Insufficient proofing time will affect the bagel’s texture.
Not boiling the bagels properly will yield a soft crust.
Skipping the toppings can lead to bland flavor.

Helpful Tips

Ensure your sourdough starter is bubbly and active before using.
Experiment with different toppings for variety.
Let bagels cool completely before storing to prevent sogginess.
Try adding herbs or spices to the dough for extra flavor.

FAQs

How do I know if my sourdough starter is active?

Your sourdough starter is active when it doubles in size within 4-6 hours after feeding and is bubbly on the surface.

Can I make sourdough bagels without boiling?

While boiling helps achieve the classic chewy texture, you can bake them directly, but the crust will be softer.

What can I do with leftover sourdough starter?

You can use leftover starter in pancakes, waffles, or even in other bread recipes to enhance flavor.

Can I add flavorings to the bagels?

Yes! You can mix in spices, herbs, or even cheese into the dough for added flavor.

How do I achieve a shiny crust on my bagels?

To achieve a shiny crust, brush the bagels with an egg wash before baking.

Conclusion

Making sourdough bagels at home is a rewarding experience that combines the art of baking with the joy of delicious flavors. With a bit of patience and love, you can create these chewy, tangy delights that are sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy your homemade sourdough bagels warm, topped with your favorites!