# What You'll Need:
→ Dough
01 - 4 cups bread flour, plus extra for dusting
02 - 2 ¼ teaspoons instant dry yeast
03 - 1 ½ teaspoons fine sea salt
04 - 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
05 - 1 ¼ cups warm water (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)
# How to Make It:
01 - In a large bowl, mix flour, yeast, salt, and sugar. Add warm water and stir until a rough dough forms.
02 - Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
03 - Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
04 - Deflate the dough and divide into 8 equal portions. Shape each into a ball, then poke a hole through the center and gently stretch to form bagels.
05 - Arrange bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with a towel, and let rest for 15 minutes.
06 - Preheat oven to 425°F. In a large pot, bring 8 cups water to a boil, then add baking soda and sugar.
07 - Drop 2 to 3 bagels gently into simmering water. Boil each side for 45 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon to the baking sheet.
08 - Brush bagels with beaten egg and sprinkle with chosen toppings, or use water instead of egg wash for a vegan option.
09 - Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.
10 - Transfer bagels to a wire rack and allow to cool before serving.
