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Sourdough Bagels

A warm ringed loaf with a glossy crust and a tender, open crumb, sourdough bagels are a delightful blend of chewiness and tenderness, enhanced by natural fermentation.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 10 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 8 bagels
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American, Bakery
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 1 cup active sourdough starter, bubbly and fed Make sure the sourdough starter is active and bubbly.
  • 1.5 cups warm water Water should be warm but not hot.
  • 4 cups bread flour High protein content flour recommended.
  • 2 tsp salt Regular table salt or sea salt is fine.
  • 1 tbsp sugar Helps activate the yeast in the starter.
For Boiling
  • 8 cups water Water for boiling the bagels.
  • 1 tbsp honey or sugar To enhance the flavor of the crust.
Optional Toppings
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Add just before baking for a melty topping.
  • to taste fresh jalapenos, thinly sliced Optional for a spicy kick.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, mix the active sourdough starter, warm water, and sugar until combined.
  2. Add the bread flour and salt, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise at room temperature for 8-10 hours (overnight) until doubled in size.
Shaping
  1. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.
  2. Shape each piece into a ball, poke a hole in the center with your finger, and stretch it to form a bagel shape.
  3. Place the bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with a damp towel, and let rest for 30-60 minutes.
Boiling and Baking
  1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
  2. In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water and honey to a boil.
  3. Drop 2-3 bagels into the boiling water, boiling for 30-45 seconds on each side before removing with a slotted spoon.
  4. Place boiled bagels back on the baking sheet.
  5. Top with cheddar cheese and jalapenos if using.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cheese is bubbly.
  7. Let cool on a wire rack before serving.

Notes

For the best results, use a bubbly, active starter. Knead until smooth and let rest adequately for the best texture.