If there’s one thing self-isolation has shown us, it’s that we’re a baking nation.
It makes sense; baking is not only a relaxing exercise that has shown to improve our mental health, but it also keeps us busy as we struggle with the boredom of being stuck indoors – and we get to eat freshly-baked treats at the end.
We have teamed up with Bread Ahead, the Borough Market bakery and school, to bring you five easy recipes of baked goods that you can make at home for one week.
We will be releasing a new delicious recipe every day, starting today (30 March) until Friday (3 April), along with instructions and a video for those who prefer visual stimulation.
Whether you make it a family activity, bake on your own or put together your very own Great British Bake Off Home Edition competition, grab your rolling pin and let’s go.
Bakers, at the ready. First up: bagels.
Bagel recipe
- 14g fresh yeast
- 7g malt syrup (you can substitute honey if desired) 270g cold water
- 465g strong white bread flour
- 7g fine sea salt
- 60g sugar
- Egg white (for brushing)
- Seeds (optional)
- Makes seven bagels
Instructions
Bread Ahead explain: ‘Begin by dissolving the yeast and the malt syrup in the water. Add the flour and salt. Bring the mixture together until incorporated. Put your dough on the table and begin to stretch and tear the dough. You need to do this for 6 minutes to develop the gluten. Put back into the bowl, cover and leave for 1 hour.
‘Divide the dough into pieces, roughly 110g each. Shape in to a round, then with your dough balls fold over to make a sausage shape, then roll into 25cm lengths.
‘Dip your finger in a little water and wet the ends of the dough. Bring the two ends together wrapping them around each other, then roll this seem together on the table.
‘Place on a lined, oiled baking tray evenly spaced. Prove for about ten minutes. Preheat your oven to 220°C/fan 200°C/gas mark 7.
‘Add the sugar to a large pot full of simmering water (about 4 litres) and poach your bagels for approximately 20 seconds on each side (40 seconds total). Brush with the egg white and sprinkle with seeds if desired.
‘Bake for 13-15 minutes until a golden-brown colour is achieved.’
Spread creme cheese, jam or peanut butter on your creation and finally, eat.
The next recipe will be shared tomorrow afternoon – it’s grissini sticks.
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