Montreal-Style Bagel Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 cups (500g) bread flour 4 cups (500g) bread flour
• 2 tablespoons (30g) granulated sugar 2 tablespoons (30g) granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons (10g) salt 2 teaspoons (10g) salt
• 2 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast 2 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast
• 1 cup (240ml) warm water 1 cup (240ml) warm water
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) honey 2 tablespoons (30ml) honey
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) vegetable oil 1 tablespoon (15ml) vegetable oil
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Sesame seeds or poppy seeds, for topping Sesame seeds or poppy seeds, for topping

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 1g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 52g, 8g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, mix together the warm water, honey, and vegetable oil.
3. 3.
   Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
4. 4.
   Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. 5.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. 7.
   Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 10 inches long.
8. 8.
   Shape each rope into a circle, overlapping the ends by about 1 inch. Press the ends together to seal.
9. 9.
   Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the honey. Boil the bagels, 3-4 at a time, for about 1 minute per side.
10. 10.
    Remove the boiled bagels from the water using a slotted spoon and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
11. 11.
    Brush the bagels with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top.
12. 12.
    Bake the bagels for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
13. 13.
    Allow the bagels to cool on a wire rack before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Bread flour — Bread flour is preferred for its higher protein content, which helps create a chewy texture. If you don't have bread flour, you can use all-purpose flour, but the texture may be slightly different.
• Honey — Use a good quality honey to enhance the flavor of the bagels. If you prefer a less sweet taste, you can reduce the amount of honey used.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced sweetness, you can add a tablespoon of honey to the boiling water.
• Toasting the bagels before serving adds an extra layer of flavor and crispness.
• Experiment with different toppings such as everything seasoning, dried onion flakes, or coarse salt for a unique twist.
• For a richer flavor, you can replace the water in the dough with milk.
• If you prefer a softer crust, brush the bagels with melted butter after baking.

Serving advice

Montreal-Style Bagels are best enjoyed fresh and warm. Serve them plain, toasted, or with your favorite spreads such as cream cheese, butter, or smoked salmon. They also make a delicious base for sandwiches or can be enjoyed alongside a bowl of soup.

Presentation advice

Arrange the freshly baked bagels on a rustic wooden board or a platter. Sprinkle some additional sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top for an extra visual appeal. Serve them with a side of cream cheese and garnish with fresh herbs for an elegant presentation.