Simple Bagel Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 and 1/4 cups warm water
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons honey (optional)
• 1 tablespoon baking soda
• Poppy seeds, sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt until combined.
2. Add warm water, vegetable oil, and honey (if using) to the dry ingredients and stir until the dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rest for about an hour or until it has doubled in size.
5. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add baking soda.
7. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and roll each piece into a ball. Flatten each ball slightly and poke a hole in the center using your finger. Stretch the hole to make it about 1-2 inches wide.
8. Place the bagels into the boiling water, 2-3 at a time, and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side.
9. Remove the bagels from the water with a slotted spoon and place them onto the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining bagels.
10. Sprinkle the bagels with poppy seeds, sesame seeds, or everything bagel seasoning, if desired.
11. Bake the bagels for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown.
12. Remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.

Enjoy your homemade eggless bagels!