Sourdough Bagels

Name: Sourdough Bagels
Prep time: 120 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 145 min
Ingredients: 500 g bread flour; 300 g active sourdough starter; 250 ml warm water; 10 g salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 tablespoon malt syrup (optional); Sesame seeds or poppy seeds for topping (optional)

Sourdough bagels are a delightful twist on the classic bagel, offering a unique flavor and chewy texture thanks to the natural fermentation process. Whether you enjoy them plain, topped with cream cheese, or filled with your favorite ingredients, these bagels are sure to impress. Follow this recipe to make the perfect batch at home, and elevate your breakfast game with this artisanal delight.

Ingredients

500g bread flour
300g active sourdough starter
250ml warm water
10g salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon malt syrup (optional)
Sesame seeds or poppy seeds for topping (optional)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields 8 sourdough bagels. Preparation time is approximately 2 hours, followed by an overnight fermentation. Cooking time is about 25 minutes.

Nutritional Value

For one serving (1 bagel), the nutritional value is approximately:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 9g
– Fat: 1g
– Carbohydrates: 50g
– Fiber: 2g

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

In a large bowl, mix bread flour and salt.
Add the sourdough starter and warm water to the flour mixture.
Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.
Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rest for 1 hour.
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl.
Let the dough rise until doubled in size, about 4-6 hours or overnight in the fridge.
Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F).
Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and shape them into bagels.
Boil a large pot of water, adding malt syrup if desired.
Boil each bagel for 1 minute on each side, then transfer to a baking sheet.
Sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if using.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute bread flour with all-purpose flour, though it may alter the texture slightly. If you don’t have malt syrup, honey or brown sugar can work as sweeteners in the boiling water.

Serving and Pairings

Sourdough bagels pair wonderfully with cream cheese, smoked salmon, or avocado. They can also be enjoyed with butter or your favorite spreads, making them versatile for any meal.

Storage and Reheating

Store cooled bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag. Reheat in the oven or toaster for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking Mistakes

Not allowing enough time for dough fermentation.
Skipping the boiling step, which is crucial for texture.
Using cold ingredients directly from the fridge.
Overworking the dough during shaping.
Not measuring ingredients accurately.
Baking at the wrong temperature.
Forgetting to preheat the oven.

Helpful Tips

Use a digital scale for precise measurements.
Experiment with different toppings for variety.
Let the bagels cool completely before storing.
Use a pizza stone for an even bake.
Consider adding herbs or spices to the dough for extra flavor.

FAQs

How long does the dough need to ferment?

The dough should ferment for about 4-6 hours at room temperature or overnight in the refrigerator for optimal flavor development.

Can I use instant yeast instead of a sourdough starter?

Yes, you can use instant yeast, but it will change the flavor and texture. Use 1-2 teaspoons of yeast for quicker results.

What can I do with leftover bagels?

Leftover bagels can be sliced and toasted for a delicious snack or made into bagel chips. They also freeze well for later use.

Why are my bagels dense?

Dense bagels may result from not kneading the dough enough or not allowing adequate fermentation time. Ensure you follow the steps carefully.

Can I make bagels without boiling them?

While it’s possible, boiling is essential for achieving the classic chewy texture. Skipping this step may result in softer bagels.

Conclusion

Sourdough bagels are a fantastic addition to your baking repertoire. With their unique flavor and chewy texture, they are sure to be a hit at any table. Follow this recipe to impress your friends and family with your newfound baking skills, and enjoy the satisfaction of making these delicious bagels from scratch.