Traditional Boiled Bagels

Directions

Preparation:45min  ›  Cook:35min  ›  Ready in:1hour20min 

1. In large bowl, combine 1 cup of the flour and yeast. Mix water, 3 tablespoons sugar and salt together and add to the dry ingredients. Beat with an electric hand held mixer for half a minute at a low speed, scraping the sides of the bowl clean. Beat at a higher speed for 3 minutes. Then, by hand, mix in enough of the remaining flour to make a moderately stiff dough.
2. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic (8 to 10 minutes). Cover, let rest for 15 minutes.
3. Cut into 12 portions, shape into smooth balls. Poke a hole in the centre with your finger, and gently enlarge the hole while working the bagel into a uniform shape. Cover, let rise 20 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, bring 4 litres of water to the boil. Stir in the extra tablespoon of sugar and reduce to a simmer.
5. Put 4 or 5 bagels into the water and cook 7 minutes, turning once; drain. Place on a greased baking tray and bake at 190 degrees C for 30 to 35 minutes. Remove from oven and eat hot or cold.