Marmite bagels

Method

• step 1

  To make the bagel dough, put the Marmite and malt into a jug and pour in 300ml hand-hot water. Stir until the malt and Marmite have dissolved.

• step 2

  Mix the flour and yeast in a big bowl. Make a well in the centre, pour in the Marmite water and mix to a smooth dough, first with a wooden spoon, then get your hands in. Knead for 10 minutes (or in a stand mixer for 5), then put back into the cleaned bowl, cover with oiled clingfilm, and leave to rise at room temperature until doubled in size.

• step 3

  Divide the dough into 9 equal portions (weigh them for an evenly sized batch) and shape into neat balls. Space equally on two oiled, baking parchment-covered trays and cover lightly with oiled clingfilm. Leave until doubled in size again.

• step 4

  Heat the oven to 220C/fan 200C/gas 7 and fill a large saucepan with water. Bring the pan to the boil, then lower the heat to gently simmering and stir in the bicarb, malt and Marmite (careful – it will bubble up!). Use a floured finger to push a hole down through the centre of each dough ball, then lift from the paper. Swirl it gently around your finger to stretch the hole a little, but don’t knock out too much air, then lower carefully into the poaching pan. Do 2 bagels at a time if your pan allows, and poach for 2 minutes, turning over halfway. Using a slotted spoon, lift out the bagels and return to the paper-lined baking trays. Repeat to poach all the bagels, keeping the water at a gentle simmer.

• step 5

  When all your bagels are poached, beat the glazing egg and marmite together with a fork, and brush all over the bagels before sprinkling with some seeds. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown and crisp. Cool on a wire rack and eat toasted, within 3-4 days.