Tired of store-bought bagels that lack flavor and leave you wanting more? Craving a delicious, homemade bagel but intimidated by complicated recipes? Then look no further! This easy vegan bagel recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike. It’s a simple, satisfying way to enjoy fresh, fluffy bagels any day of the week. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this delicious and healthy meal option, perfect for a quick breakfast or a satisfying brunch.
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a perfect addition to your easy recipes repertoire.
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
- Sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning (optional)
Instructions: Let's Bake Some Bagels!
Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfectly chewy vegan bagels:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic, creating a light and airy texture.
Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add olive oil, salt, and nutritional yeast to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Don't worry if it's a little sticky at this stage.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. This step develops the gluten, resulting in a chewier bagel.
Step 4: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size. This allows the yeast to do its work, creating that characteristic fluffy texture.
Step 5: Shape the Bagels
Punch down the dough to release the air. Divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball. Poke a hole in the center of each ball using your finger and gently stretch the hole to about 1-1.5 inches in diameter.
Step 6: Second Rise
Place the shaped bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 7: Boil and Bake
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Gently drop 3-4 bagels into the boiling water for 1 minute per side. This creates that signature chewy bagel texture. Remove with a slotted spoon and place back on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle with your desired toppings (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything bagel seasoning).
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Tips and Variations for Delicious Bagels
- For a richer flavor: Use whole wheat flour or a blend of all-purpose and whole wheat flour.
- Add herbs and spices: Experiment with adding dried herbs like rosemary or oregano to the dough for extra flavor.
- Sweet bagels: Add a tablespoon or two of maple syrup or brown sugar to the dough for a sweeter bagel.
- Different toppings: Get creative with toppings! Try onion flakes, garlic powder, or even chopped nuts.
Nutritional Information (per bagel, approximate)
- Calories: 200-250
- Protein: 5-7g
- Fat: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Fiber: 2-3g
This recipe is a great addition to your healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy these delicious and easy-to-make vegan bagels! They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light lunch. The best recipes are often the simplest, and this one certainly delivers on both flavor and ease.