Jerusalem Bagel Recipe

When it comes to iconic street food, few things are as delightful as the warm, chewy goodness of a Jerusalem bagel. Originating from the bustling streets of Jerusalem, these bagels are not just your average breakfast item; they are a cultural staple that brings people together. Their unique texture, slightly sweet flavor, and irresistible sesame seed topping make them a must-try. Today, I’m excited to share my Jerusalem Bagel Recipe that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Israel. Let’s dive in!

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Jerusalem Bagel recipe is special because it captures the essence of traditional flavors while being surprisingly easy to make at home. The combination of all-purpose flour, warm milk, and a hint of honey creates a beautifully textured dough that is both soft and chewy. The addition of sesame seeds not only adds a nutty flavor but also a delightful crunch. Whether you enjoy them plain, with your favorite spreads, or as a sandwich, these bagels are incredibly versatile and perfect for any occasion.

What Goes In

To create the perfect Jerusalem bagel, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon instant yeast
• 1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 cups warm whole milk
• Olive oil as needed
• 1/3 cup sesame seeds
• 1 1/2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon water

Hardware & Gadgets

To make your bagel-making experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the following tools:

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl for mixing your dough.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for perfect results.
• Wooden spoon: Great for combining ingredients without damaging your mixing bowl.
• Clean kitchen towel: To cover the dough as it rises.
• Baking sheet: For placing your bagels before baking.
• Parchment paper: To prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

The Method for Jerusalem Bagel Recipe

Follow these steps to create your own Jerusalem bagels:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, instant yeast, and baking powder. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the dry ingredients.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the warm milk, honey, and water. Using a wooden spoon, stir the mixture until it begins to come together into a dough.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.

Step 4: First Rise

Lightly grease a clean bowl with olive oil and place the dough inside, turning it to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Bagels

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, approximately 10-12 inches long. Bring the ends together to form a circle, pinching to seal.

Step 6: Second Rise

Place the shaped bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 7: Preheat Oven

While the bagels are rising, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Step 8: Boil the Bagels

In a large pot, bring water to a gentle boil. Add a tablespoon of honey to the water. Carefully drop each bagel into the boiling water, cooking for about 1 minute on each side. This step is crucial for that chewy texture!

Step 9: Bake the Bagels

Remove the bagels from the water and place them back on the baking sheet. Sprinkle sesame seeds generously on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Enjoy them fresh, or store them for later!

Variations by Season

Jerusalem bagels are incredibly versatile, and you can easily adapt them based on the season:

• Spring: Add fresh herbs like dill or chives to the dough for a fragrant twist.
• Summer: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes and olives for a Mediterranean flair.
• Fall: Mix in pumpkin spice or cinnamon for a seasonal touch.
• Winter: Try adding dried cranberries and nuts for a festive flavor.

Steer Clear of These

While making your Jerusalem bagels, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Using cold milk: Warm milk is essential for activating the yeast properly.
• Skipping the boiling step: This is key for achieving that perfect chewy texture.
• Over-kneading the dough: Knead just until smooth; overworking can make it tough.
• Not letting the dough rise enough: Give it time to double in size for the best results.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

If you have leftover bagels, here are some tips:

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a resealable bag. To reheat, simply place them in a toaster or warm them in the oven for a few minutes. They’ll taste just as fresh!

Troubleshooting Q&A

Why are my bagels dense?

Your bagels may be dense if the dough wasn’t kneaded enough or if it didn’t rise sufficiently. Ensure to follow the rising times closely.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead?

Yes, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but it may alter the texture slightly.

What if I don’t have instant yeast?

You can use active dry yeast instead; just activate it in warm water before adding it to the dry ingredients.

How can I make my bagels sweeter?

For a sweeter bagel, try adding a bit more honey to the dough or topping them with a honey glaze after baking.

Quick Weeknight Wins

If you’re looking for more quick and easy recipes to complement your Jerusalem bagels, check out these links:

• Quick Hummus Recipe
• Easy Roasted Vegetables
• Simple Greek Salad
• Avocado Toast Variations

Final Bite

Making Jerusalem bagels at home is not just about enjoying a delicious treat; it’s an experience that connects you to a rich culinary tradition. With every bite, you’ll taste the love and effort put into this recipe. They make for a fantastic breakfast, a delightful snack, or the perfect base for a sandwich. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, I hope this Jerusalem Bagel Recipe brings a little piece of Jerusalem to your kitchen!

Now, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s get baking!