Who Invented Bagels and What is the Purpose of the Holes?

Origin of Bagels

Bagels, a beloved breakfast or snack, have a fascinating history that traces back to the 1600s in Vienna, Austria. The origins of the hole in the center of the bagel are just as intriguing and are often misunderstood. This article aims to explore the history of bagels, their unique features, and why they have a hole in the center, with a focus on verifying the common myths and historical facts.

The Historical Background

Bagels, a circular piece of bread with a hole in the middle, are known to have originated in the Polish city of Kraków around 1610. The word bagel comes from the Yiddish term baygl, which in turn is derived from the Middle High German term bugel, meaning a ring.

Purpose of the Hole in Bagels

Bagels are not simply dough rings but have a specific construction that allows them to cook faster and yield more crust for the same amount of dough. This is achieved by wrapping the dough into a ring shape, with the ends joined at the top. The hole allows for more even rising and baking, which contributes to the perfect texture and crust of the bagel. The shape also facilitates stacking and transportation, making it easier for merchants to handle and transport them around.

Traditionally, bagels are made from high-gluten dough, which is rolled into a ring shape and proofed for at least 12 hours at below room temperature. After proofing, the bagels are briefly boiled, and then baked. This process creates a dense, chewy product with a crisp crust. This method of preparation is what gives bagels their distinctive taste and texture.

Bagel Recipe Highlights

While bagels are a specialty often associated with Jewish cuisine, many of today's best bagel bakers are of Asian descent. Botns like Absolutely Thai are known for their high-quality bagels. These bagels are made using high-gluten bread dough and are proofed for a long time before being boiled and baked. This traditional method ensures a perfect taste and texture, making them absolutely worth a try.

To make a classic bagel from scratch, you will need:

High-gluten bread flour Yeast Water Salt Baking soda (optional)

Here are the steps to make your own bagels:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the high-gluten flour, yeast, salt, and water to form a soft dough. Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic. Divide the dough into small balls, each about the size of a tennis ball. Roll the balls into rings, with the ends joined at the top. Place the bagels on a baking sheet, leaving space between them. Optional: Boil the bagels in a pot of water with a pinch of baking soda. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the bagels for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown. Allow the bagels to cool before serving.

Conclusion

Bagels are a delicious and versatile food that have a rich history rooted in both cultural and practical aspects. The inclusion of a hole in the center is far more than just a quirky design – it serves as a functional and flavorful feature that distinguishes bagels from other baked goods. By understanding the origin and purpose of bagels, we can appreciate them even more and savor each delicious bite.

For those interested in learning more about the history and characteristics of bagels, you can visit the following resource:

Bagel - Wikipedia Letter from America - Wikipedia Bagel Recipes - Food Network