The Delightful World of Sourdough Bagels

There’s something uniquely enchanting about the taste of a sourdough bagel. It's an alluring blend of tangy and sweet, chewy yet soft – a delightful twist on the traditional bagel. If you’ve never experienced the magic of sourdough bagels, now's the perfect time to dive in and explore what makes them so special.

A Culinary Love Story: Sourdough Meets Bagels

Sourdough and bagels both have rich histories and deep-rooted cultural significance. Sourdough, one of the oldest forms of leavened bread, hails from ancient Egypt and became a staple in many cultures around the world. Bagels, on the other hand, trace their origins to Jewish communities in Poland, where they became beloved for their distinctive shape and hearty texture.

Bringing these two together in a single recipe creates a culinary masterpiece. The sourdough starter infuses the bagels with a unique depth of flavor, elevating them from mere breakfast fare to an experience worth savoring.

The Science Behind the Tang

The magic of sourdough bagels lies in the fermentation process. A sourdough starter, which consists of flour and water fermented by wild yeast and lactobacilli, serves as the natural leavening agent. The lactobacilli produce lactic acid, which gives sourdough its signature tangy flavor.

This fermentation process not only enhances the taste but also makes the bagels easier to digest. The natural yeasts break down some of the gluten and complex carbohydrates, resulting in a more gut-friendly treat.

Crafting Your Own Pumpkin Raisin Sourdough Bagels: A Labor of Love

Making sourdough bagels at home might seem intimidating, but with patience and practice, you can master the art. Here’s a simplified guide to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 3 ¾ cups bread flour

• 3 Tablespoons brown sugar (divided)

• 1 Tablespoon pumpkin pie spice

• 2 teaspoons kosher salt

• 1 teaspoon instant yeast

• 200 grams (about ¾ cup) sourdough discard (unfed, at room temperature)

• 1 cup pumpkin purée

• ½ cup warm water

• 3 Tablespoons brown sugar (packed)

• 2 Tablespoons coconut sugar

• 1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour

• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon

• 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter (melted)

• 1 egg white plus 1 Tablespoon water (for egg wash )

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix together flour, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and instant yeast. Add the sourdough discard and pumpkin purée. Gradually add warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms. Stretch and fold in raisins.

   
   

2. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 4-5 minutes until the dough is smooth and not sticky. Adjust consistency with more water or flour as needed.

   
   

3. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let it rise for 2 hours or until doubled in size.

   
   

4. Prepare two parchment-lined baking sheets. Divide the dough into 10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then press a hole through the center with your thumb to form bagels. Make the hole larger than you think it should be. Place the bagels on the baking sheets and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Let them rest for 20 minutes.

   
   

5. Preheat oven to 425°F. In a pot, bring 2 quarts of water and 2 tablespoons brown sugar to a boil. Boil bagels for 20-30 seconds on each side until they float. Remove with a slotted spoon and place back on the baking sheets.

   
   

6. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with cinnamon crunch topping. Bake for 20-22 minutes, rotating the sheets halfway through, until golden brown.

Elevating Your Sourdough Bagels: Toppings and Pairings

While a plain sourdough bagel is delicious on its own, you can take it to the next level with various toppings and pairings. Here are a few ideas:

- **Classic Toppings:** Cream cheese, lox, capers, and red onions

- **Sweet Variations:** Cinnamon and sugar, honey butter, or Nutella

- **Savory Twists:** Avocado, tomato, and arugula; or hummus and roasted vegetables

-**Personal Favorite Topping Combination:** Cream cheese, pistachios, pomegranate arils, blueberries and honey drizzled on top

Final Thoughts

Sourdough bagels are a delightful fusion of tradition and innovation. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a curious novice, crafting your own sourdough bagels can be a rewarding experience. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and enjoy the delicious results. Happy baking! 🥯

Love to bake at home? We've got a selection of apparel and accessories in your wheelhouse:

https://www.somebunnycreative.com/baking

"Homebaked" Embroidered Turkish cotton hand towel

Buy Now

"Homebaked" Eco Tote Bag

Buy Now