Honey Sesame Turkish Bagels (Simit)

Servings: 8

• 4 cups All Purpose Flour
• 1/4 cup + 2 tbsp. Honey
• 2 tsp. Instant Yeast
• 1 tsp. Sea Salt
• 1 1/2 cups + 1/2 cup Warm Water
• 1/4 cup Olive Oil
• 1/2 cup Sesame Seeds
• 1 Egg, beaten

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the knead attachment, add the flour, yeast, and salt. Mix well.
2. Add the 1 1/2 cups warm water, 2 tbsp. honey, and olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough.
3. If using the knead attachment, knead on medium-low speed or knead by hand on a clean surface until a smooth and pliable dough.
4. Place in a clean, oiled bowl. Cover with a wet kitchen cloth or plastic wrap. Set aside in a warm environment to rise until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.
5. Divide the dough into 16 equal pieces. Roll out each piece with the palm of your hands into 18-24" long ropes. Twist two of the ropes together tightly, then pinch the ends together to create a braided bagel. Place on a parchment line baking pan. Cover and rise 20 minutes minutes.
6. Preheat oven to 400F.
7. In a large bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 cup water and 1/4 cup honey. Mix well. Dip the bagels in the warm water mixture, then place back on the prepared baking pan. Brush each with the beaten egg, then sprinkle with the sesame seeds.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until golden. Enjoy warm or store once fully cooled up to 3 days at room temperature.