4 1/2 - 5 c. flour
3 tbsp. sugar
1 tbsp. salt
2 pkgs. active dry yeast
Water
2 tbsp. butter
1 tbsp. sugar
2 tsp. salt
1 egg white

Mix 1 1/2 cups flour, 3 tablespoons sugar, 1 tablespoon salt and yeast. Heat 1 1/2 cups water and butter to 120 to 130 degrees. Add to dry ingredients, beat for 2 minutes at medium speed. Add 1/2 cup flour; beat at high speed for 2 minutes. Stir in more flour to make a stiff dough. On floured board, knead 8 to 10 minutes. Set in greased bowl, turn to grease top. Cover; let rise in warm, draft free place 1 hour.

Punch down. Cover, let rise 15 minutes. In large skillet heat 1" water over medium heat to a simmer; add remaining salt and sugar. Divide dough into 12 pieces; shape 3 pieces into balls. With floured finger, poke a 1" hole in each. Drop bagels into simmering water. Cook 3 minutes. Turn and cook 2 minutes.. Turn again, cook 1 minute more. Drain on towels. Repeat shaping and cooking rest of dough.

Place on a greased baking sheet. Mix egg white and 1 tablespoon water; brush on bagels. Sprinkle with coarse salt, sesame, caraway or poppy seed if desired. Bake at 375 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes. Remove from sheet. Cool.