3 c plain flour
3 tsp yeast
1 1/2 c warm water
3 Tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt
extra 2 Tbsp sugar
Sesame Seeds (optional)
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of the flour, yeast, 3 Tbsp sugar, salt, and warm water. Beat with an electric mixer. Add the remaining flour and mix on low for 1 minute. Raise mixer speed one or two speeds higher and continue to mix for 3 minutes using a spatula to get the dry ingredients off the side of the mixing bowl.
Sprinkle some flour on the counter top. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic. Cover the dough and allow it to rest for 15 minutes.
Divide dough into 12 portions. Shape the dough into smooth balls. Poke a hole in the center with your finger and gently enlarge the hole while working the bagel into a uniform shape.
Cover the dough and let it rise for about 20 minutes.
While your dough rises, bring 4 liters of water to a boil. Stir in the remaining 2 Tbsp of sugar. Reduce to a simmer.
Put 4 or 5 bagels into the water and boil for 7 minutes, turning the bagel once. Drain. If desired, dip boiled bagel in sesame seeds to make 'em fancy. Place on a greased baking tray and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool a bit. Eat hot or cold.
I served these bagels with cream cheese and chives as well as smoked salmon. Allow the cream cheese to come to room temperature. Mix in chopped chives. Store in refrigerate until needed. The smoked salmon came prepared, but I rolled the salmon and added some chives for a lovely presentation. Yummo! It was a hit!
