Preparation:
Dissolve yeast in warm water. Add 2 cups flour, the 3/4 cup water, sugar and salt. Mix ingredients on high speed of electric mixer for 2 minutes. Reduce speed and slowly add 2 more cups of flour. When the dough becomes stiff, turn onto a floured board and knead by hand until smooth (or use a dough hook). Place in a lightly greased bowl, Cover, to rest for 15 minutes. Divide dough into 12 balls. Pierce the center of each ball to make the center hole. Pull to enlarge. Let rise, covered, for 30 minutes on a lightly greased baking sheet. Bring the 4 quarts of water to a boil. Add 1 tsp of sugar (this aids browning). Reduce heat to simmer and add 4 bagels. After 3 minutes, turn and simmer 4 minutes longer. Remove. Pat dry and place on a lightly greased baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining bagels. Bake at 375 for 30 minutes. |