Sourdough Bagels Recipe

With a delightful soft and chewy texture, this Sourdough Bagels Recipe will have you questioning why you haven’t made them sooner! Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, these bagels are versatile and can be topped with your favorite spreads or enjoyed plain. The unique sourdough tang elevates the flavor, making each bite truly special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: This recipe only requires five straightforward ingredients, making it easy for anyone to follow.
• Deliciously Chewy Texture: The sourdough fermentation process creates that classic chewy texture that everyone loves in bagels.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your bagels with various toppings like sesame seeds, everything seasoning, or even cheese for added flavor.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a leisurely weekend brunch, a quick breakfast on-the-go, or a fun baking project with kids, these bagels fit right in.
• Longer Shelf Life: Homemade sourdough bagels can be stored longer than store-bought versions thanks to their natural fermentation.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Danish Dough Whisk
• Bench scraper or sharp knife
• Parchment-lined baking sheet
• Slotted spoon
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Danish Dough Whisk: This whisk makes mixing the dough easier by thoroughly combining ingredients without overworking it.
• Bench Scraper: A handy tool for cutting dough and transferring it without mess.
• Cooling Rack: Allows for even cooling of the bagels after baking, ensuring they stay fresh longer.

Ingredients

To make these delicious sourdough bagels, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Dough

• 150g active, bubbly starter
• 250g warm water
• 500g bread flour
• 40g sugar
• 11g salt

For the Boil Bath

• 20g honey

How to Make Sourdough Bagels Recipe

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine 150g of active starter, 250g of warm water, and 40g of sugar. Mix by hand (or use a Danish Dough Whisk) until you reach a milky consistency.
2. Next, add 500g of bread flour and 11g of salt to the mixture. Stir until fully incorporated.
3. Knead the dough by hand for about 5-6 minutes until it becomes stiff and slightly bumpy. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 60 minutes.

Step 2: Stretch and Fold

1. After resting for an hour, repeat the stretch, fold, and push routine using your hand for about 30 seconds.
2. Cover again with a reusable shower cap and place in a warm area to rise.

Step 3: Bulk Rise

1. Allow the dough to double in size; this typically takes 8-12 hours depending on your kitchen temperature.

Step 4: Shape Your Bagels

1. Once risen, gently remove the dough from the bowl onto your work surface.
2. Roll into a rectangle about half an inch thick; cut into eight equal pieces using a bench scraper or knife.
3. Shape each piece into a smooth ball by pulling corners toward the center.
4. Punch a hole in each ball using your thumb and stretch gently to form bagels.

Step 5: Second Rise

1. Place shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet; cover with a damp tea towel.
2. Let them puff up in a warm place for about 20-60 minutes.

Step 6: Boil Bath Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Fill a large pot with water; add 20g of honey and bring to boil.

Step 7: Boil Bagels

1. Carefully drop 2-3 bagels into boiling water; boil each side for about 30 seconds.
2. Use a slotted spoon to transfer boiled bagels onto the cooling rack.

Step 8: Bake Your Bagels

1. Bake your Sourdough Bagels for approximately 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
2. Let cool on a wire rack before slicing.

With this Sourdough Bagels Recipe, you’ll enjoy freshly baked bagels that are perfect for any meal!

How to Serve Sourdough Bagels Recipe

Sourdough bagels are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, lunch, or a snack, here are some delightful serving ideas to elevate your sourdough bagel experience.

Classic Cream Cheese Spread

• Plain Cream Cheese: A simple yet delicious choice that pairs perfectly with the chewy texture of the bagel.
• Herbed Cream Cheese: Mix cream cheese with fresh herbs like chives or dill for a flavorful twist.

Sweet Suggestions

• Honey and Butter: Spread warm butter and drizzle honey for a sweet, indulgent treat.
• Fruit Preserves: Top with your favorite fruit preserves like raspberry or apricot for a fruity bite.

Savory Combinations

• Avocado Toast: Smash ripe avocado on your bagel and sprinkle with salt and pepper for a healthy option.
• Smoked Salmon: Add slices of smoked salmon, capers, and red onion for an elegant brunch dish.

Wholesome Toppings

• Nut Butters: Spread almond or peanut butter for a protein-packed snack.
• Vegetable Medley: Top with sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta cheese for a refreshing bite.

How to Perfect Sourdough Bagels Recipe

Perfecting your sourdough bagels takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results every time.

• Bold Starter Activity: Ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before using it. This helps the dough rise properly.
• Kneading Technique: Knead the dough by hand for better texture. This allows you to feel the dough’s consistency as it develops.
• Proper Resting Time: Be patient during the bulk rise. Letting the dough rest until it doubles in size improves flavor and texture.
• Boiling Precision: Boil bagels for 30 seconds on each side to create that classic chewy crust.
• Topping Selection: Experiment with different toppings to personalize your bagels. The right toppings can enhance flavor and presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Bagels Recipe

Pairing your sourdough bagels with complementary side dishes can round out any meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balance to your meal.
2. Mixed Greens Salad: Tossed greens with a light vinaigrette provide freshness and crunch alongside your bagel.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a satisfying side that complements sweet toppings on bagels.
4. Vegetable Soup: A warm bowl of vegetable soup can make for a comforting pair with savory bagel options.
5. Cheese Platter: Serve assorted cheeses alongside sliced vegetables or crackers for an elegant touch.
6. Roasted Veggies: Seasoned roasted vegetables offer a hearty side that enhances any savory flavor profile in your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making sourdough bagels can be a rewarding experience, but certain mistakes can hinder your results. Here are common pitfalls to watch for:

• Bold starter: Using an inactive or weak starter will lead to dense bagels. Always check that your sourdough starter is bubbly and active before beginning.
• Bold flour measurement: Not weighing your flour can result in a dough that is too dry or too wet. Use a kitchen scale for consistent measurements each time.
• Bold kneading time: Under-kneading the dough can cause bagels to lack their characteristic chewiness. Ensure you knead for the recommended 5-6 minutes to develop gluten properly.
• Bold boiling time: Skipping the boiling step or not boiling long enough can affect the texture and crust of your bagels. Boil each side for 30 seconds to achieve that perfect chewy exterior.
• Bold cooling process: Cutting the bagels too soon after baking can lead to a gummy texture. Let them cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container or a resealable bag.
• Bagels will stay fresh for about 2-3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Sourdough Bagels Recipe

• Wrap each bagel tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Sourdough Bagels Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake directly from frozen or thawed for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual bagels on high for about 15-20 seconds if thawed, but avoid overheating as it may become chewy.
• Stovetop: Toast them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Sourdough Bagels Recipe that many home bakers ask:

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly. You might need to adjust the water content as whole wheat absorbs more moisture.

How do I know if my sourdough starter is active?

Your sourdough starter should double in size within 4-6 hours after feeding and have bubbles throughout, indicating it’s ready for baking.

How long do sourdough bagels last?

When stored correctly, sourdough bagels will stay fresh for about 2-3 days at room temperature and up to 3 months if frozen.

Can I add toppings to my sourdough bagels?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with toppings like sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning before baking.

What is the best way to customize my sourdough bagels?

You can add herbs, spices, or cheese directly into the dough during mixing. For sweet options, consider adding dried fruits or cinnamon sugar as toppings!

Final Thoughts

This Sourdough Bagels Recipe delivers soft and chewy delights that are easy to make with just five ingredients. Enjoy customizing them with various toppings or flavors, making them perfect for any meal of the day. Give this recipe a try; you won’t regret it!