Whole Wheat Chia Bagels

Ingredients:

• 2 tsp active dry yeast (7-8 grams)

• 1 tbsp honey (20 grams)

• 1 ¼ cups (310 mL) warm water

• 3 ½ cups (440 g) whole wheat bread flour

• 2 tbsp chia seeds (about 30g)

• 1 tsp salt (about 5g)

• 1 egg yolk - beaten

• Everything bagel seasoning - to taste

• Oil of choice - for greasing
  

Directions:

• Yeast Mixture: In a small dish, combine the honey, yeast, and warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast activates (it should look frothy).

• Dough Preparation: In a large bowl, mix the whole wheat bread flour, chia seeds, and salt. Once the yeast mixture is ready, pour it into the flour mixture and stir until combined.

• Kneading: On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a mixer with a dough hook for 6-7 minutes.

• First Rise: Grease a large bowl with olive oil and place the dough inside. Cover with a damp dish towel and let it rise in a warm area for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

• Punch and Rest: Punch down the dough (enjoy this part!) and let it rest for another 5-10 minutes.

• Shaping: Divide the dough into 6-8 pieces and shape each into a bagel. Place them on a baking sheet and cover again with the damp dish towel for another 10 minutes.

• Boiling: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and gently boil the bagels for about 1 minute per side, until they float to the top.

• Baking Preparation: Place the boiled bagels back on the baking sheet, brush each with the beaten egg yolk, and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning.

• Baking: Bake for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown.

These whole wheat chia bagels offer a nutritious twist on a classic favourite, perfect for breakfast or any time you need a satisfying snack.