New York Style Bagels

Ingredients:

• 4 cups bread flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 packet active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon water
• Optional toppings: everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
2. Slowly pour in warm water while stirring with a wooden spoon or dough hook on low speed. Mix until the dough comes together.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
5. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
6. Roll each piece into a ball and make a hole in the center with your finger. Gently stretch the hole until it is about 2 inches in diameter.
7. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bring a large pot of water to a boil.
8. Drop the bagels into the boiling water, one or two at a time. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, then flip and cook for another minute.
9. Remove the bagels from the water with a slotted spoon and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
10. In a small bowl, beat together the egg and 1 tablespoon of water. Brush the mixture onto the tops of the bagels.
11. If