# List of Ingredients:
→ Dough
01 - 4 cups bread flour, plus extra for dusting
02 - 2 1/4 teaspoons instant dry yeast
03 - 1 1/2 teaspoons fine sea salt
04 - 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
05 - 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 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)
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 - In a large bowl, mix flour, yeast, salt, and sugar thoroughly before adding the warm water.
02 - Stir until dough begins to form, then knead on a lightly floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
03 - Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a cloth, and allow it to rise until doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.
04 - Deflate dough, divide into eight equal portions, shape each into a ball, then create a hole in the center and gently stretch to form traditional bagels.
05 - Arrange the shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with a towel, and let rest for 15 minutes.
06 - Set oven to 425°F to preheat thoroughly while preparing poaching water.
07 - Bring 8 cups of water to a boil in a large pot; add baking soda and sugar, stirring until dissolved.
08 - Lower bagels into simmering water, 2 to 3 at a time, boiling each side for 45 seconds; remove with a slotted spoon and return to baking sheet.
09 - Brush bagels with beaten egg for a glossy finish and sprinkle with preferred toppings; for a vegan alternative, substitute egg wash with water.
10 - Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until bagels develop a golden-brown crust; cool on a wire rack before serving.
