Ready to master the art of making bagels with a sourdough twist? This sourdough bagel recipe brings you chewy, flavorful, and perfectly golden bagels that rival your favorite bakery’s offerings. With a bit of patience and the right technique, you can enjoy the satisfaction of making these beauties right at home.
Introduction to Sourdough Bagel Recipe
Bagels have long been a favorite for breakfast lovers, especially when topped with a generous schmear of cream cheese or some fresh smoked salmon. If you’ve been wondering how to up your bread game, learning to make your own sourdough bagels is an exciting way to do it. Sourdough is a classic for good reason—it adds depth of flavor and a subtle tang that can’t be beaten. And in addition to the taste, it’s also a healthier alternative to conventional bread-making.
If you are new to sourdough, this recipe will guide you through each step of the process to help you make the best sourdough bagels you can imagine. We will also provide tips to help you use sourdough discard effectively, making sure nothing goes to waste. For a helpful overview of how sourdough works, you can check this informative article on sourdough starter basics.
Why Make Your Own Sourdough Bagels?
Healthier Alternative to Store-Bought Bagels
Homemade sourdough bagels are not only tastier, but they can also be significantly healthier. Unlike commercially-produced bagels that are often loaded with preservatives, making your own lets you control the quality of ingredients. Furthermore, naturally fermented sourdough helps in breaking down phytates, improving digestion and increasing nutrient absorption. If you’re interested in understanding more about the health benefits of sourdough, here’s a great resource on sourdough’s nutritional advantages.
The Joy of Sourdough Bagel Craftsmanship
Mastering the art of making bagels with a sourdough starter is rewarding and meditative. The slow fermentation process yields that beautiful sour note that makes each bite unforgettable. For those who love spending time in the kitchen, kneading and shaping the dough becomes a ritual that is both relaxing and therapeutic. Interested in the best ways to shape a perfect bagel? Check out King Arthur Baking’s tutorial.
Step-by-Step Sourdough Bagel Recipe
Ingredients
For this sourdough bagel recipe, you’ll need:
- 200g active sourdough starter (fed and bubbly)
- 500g bread flour (all-purpose can also work, but bread flour gives a chewier texture)
- 10g salt
- 20g honey or sugar (for added flavor)
- 250ml water (room temperature)
- 1 tablespoon baking soda (for boiling step)
- Toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, Everything Bagel seasoning, or your favorite toppings
Instructions
1. Mixing the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the active sourdough starter, flour, salt, honey, and water. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- Once the dough comes together, knead it on a clean surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
2. Bulk Fermentation
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth.
- Allow the dough to rise at room temperature for 4-6 hours, or until it has visibly puffed up but hasn’t necessarily doubled in size.
3. Shaping the Bagels
- Once the dough has completed its bulk fermentation, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
- Divide the dough into 8 equal portions (use a kitchen scale for accuracy).
- Shape each portion into a ball, then poke a hole in the center with your thumb. Gently stretch the hole until it is about 2 inches in diameter.
4. Cold Fermentation
- Place the shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Cover them with plastic wrap and let them rest in the refrigerator overnight (at least 12 hours and up to 24 hours). This cold fermentation helps develop the distinct sourdough flavor.
5. Boiling the Bagels
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the baking soda (this will give the bagels a shiny crust).
- Boil the bagels for 1 minute on each side. Boiling gives them their traditional chewy texture.
6. Baking
- Once boiled, place the bagels back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Sprinkle your preferred toppings onto each bagel while they are still wet from boiling.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bagels are golden brown.
Tips for Perfect Sourdough Bagels
- Use Bread Flour: Bread flour is ideal for chewy bagels. All-purpose flour can be used, but the texture will be slightly different.
- Monitor Your Starter: An active, bubbly starter is key for this recipe. Make sure it’s been recently fed and is at its peak.
- Boiling Time Matters: Boiling the bagels for longer than a minute will make them chewier. If you prefer a softer texture, reduce the boiling time.
Using Sourdough Discard for Bagels
If you want to minimize waste, consider using sourdough discard in your bagels. Sourdough discard can be used to add flavor without necessarily providing leavening. This means that while it won’t replace the active starter, it can be a great addition for a more pronounced sour flavor. Just add a couple of tablespoons of discard to your dough mixture and slightly adjust the flour and water content to achieve the correct dough consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a Sourdough Discard Bagel Recipe?
A sourdough discard bagel recipe uses the leftover unfed starter that you might usually throw away. It adds extra sour flavor but will still require an active starter for leavening.
Can I Use King Arthur Flour for My Sourdough Bagel Recipe?
Absolutely! King Arthur Flour is a popular choice for sourdough baking due to its high quality and consistent protein content. High-protein flour results in a better chew, which is essential for bagels.
How Are Sourdough Bagels Different from Regular Bagels?
Sourdough bagels are naturally fermented, which gives them a distinctive tangy flavor and makes them easier to digest compared to bagels made with commercial yeast.
What Is the Best Way to Make Sourdough Bagels at Home?
The best sourdough bagel recipe involves a combination of proper kneading, adequate fermentation time, and boiling before baking. Following the steps outlined in this guide will help you achieve excellent results.