Bagels

INGREDIENTS

Sponge:

1 tsp

instant yeast

4 cups

unbleached high-gluten or bread flour

2 1/2 cups

water, at room temperature

Dough:

1/2 tsp

instant yeast

3 3/4 cups

unbleached high-gluten or bread flour

2 3/4 tsp

salt

2 tsp

malt powder OR 1 tablespoon (.5 ounce) dark or light malt syrup, honey, or brown sugar

1 tbsp

baking soda

Cornmeal or semolina flour for dusting

Sesame seeds, poppy seeds, kosher salt, rehydrated dried minced garlic or onions, or chopped fresh onions that have been tossed in oil (optional)