The Sweet Sesame Bagel

Savory Tradition Meets Sweet Twist: The Sweet Sesame Bagel

The Sweet Sesame Bagel, a tantalizing culinary creation, embodies a rich tapestry of origin, history, and meticulous craftsmanship.

Originating from the heart of Eastern Europe, this delectable delight is a product of cultural fusion. Rooted in the traditional bagel, which dates back to the 17th century Jewish communities of Poland, the Sweet Sesame Bagel infuses contemporary flavors with an age-old foundation.

Historically, bagels symbolized unity within these communities, their circular shape representing an unbroken cycle. Over time, the addition of sesame seeds as a topping brought a captivating twist. These tiny seeds, prized for their nutty taste, elevated the bagel’s flavor profile, becoming an integral part of its identity.

How we make them

Making Sweet Sesame Bagels at home can be a fun and rewarding baking project. Here’s a basic recipe for you to follow:

Ingredients:

For the dough:

• 1 and 1/2 cups warm water
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 and 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 4 cups bread flour
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For boiling:

• Water
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

For topping:

• Sesame seeds
• 2 tablespoons honey (for brushing after baking)

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, combine warm water and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture and vegetable oil. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
5. Shape the Bagels: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into equal portions (usually around 8-10 pieces). Roll each portion into a ball, then use your thumb to create a hole in the center and stretch it into a bagel shape. Place the shaped bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Second Rise: Cover the shaped bagels with a cloth and let them rise for an additional 20-30 minutes.
7. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
8. Boil the Bagels: Fill a large pot with water and add the tablespoon of sugar. Bring the water to a boil. Gently place a few bagels into the boiling water at a time and boil for about 1-2 minutes on each side. This boiling step helps to develop the chewy texture of bagels.
9. Add Sesame Seeds: Remove the boiled bagels from the water and place them back on the baking sheet. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top of each bagel.
10. Bake the Bagels: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the bagels turn golden brown.
11. Brush with Honey: Once the bagels are out of the oven, brush the tops with honey while they are still warm. This will add a touch of sweetness and give them a nice shine.
12. Cool and Enjoy: Let the bagels cool on a wire rack before enjoying them. You can slice and toast them, serve them with your favorite spreads, or create delicious sandwiches.