Montreal-style bagels are a unique variety of bagels that are known for their dense texture, slightly sweet flavor, and distinctive shape. They are boiled in honey-sweetened water and baked in a wood-fired oven, which gives them a crispy exterior and a chewy interior.

Montreal-style bagels have a unique texture and flavor that sets them apart from other types of bagels. They are denser and chewier than traditional New York-style bagels, and have a slightly sweet taste due to the use of honey or malt syrup in the dough.

One of the key differences in the preparation of Montreal-style bagels is the boiling process. The bagels are boiled in sweetened water before baking, which gives them a slightly sticky exterior and a chewy texture. The water is typically sweetened with honey or malt syrup, which adds a touch of sweetness to the bagels.

Another distinguishing feature of Montreal-style bagels is their shape. Unlike traditional bagels, which are round and uniform in size, Montreal-style bagels are hand-rolled and shaped into a more elongated form with a larger hole in the center. This shape is said to have originated from the method of threading the bagels onto a wooden dowel to transport them to the oven.

Montreal-style bagels are typically baked in a wood-fired oven, which gives them a slightly smoky flavor and a crispy crust. However, they can also be baked in a regular oven if a wood-fired oven is not available.

In terms of serving, Montreal-style bagels are often enjoyed with cream cheese or butter, but can also be topped with smoked salmon, lox, or other spreads and toppings.

Overall, Montreal-style bagels are a beloved part of Canadian cuisine and a delicious treat for anyone who loves a good bagel.

Here is a step-by-step guide to making Montreal-style bagels:

Ingredients:

1- 1 1/2 cups warm water

2- 2 tbsp active dry yeast

3- 1/4 cup granulated sugar

4- 1/4 cup honey

5- 2 tsp salt

6- 4 cups bread flour

7- 1 egg

8- 1 tbsp water

9- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional)

Instructions:

1- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Mix well and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast is activated and the mixture is foamy.

2- Add the honey and salt to the mixture and stir until dissolved.

3- Gradually add the flour to the mixture, stirring constantly, until a stiff dough forms.

4- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 10-15 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.

5- Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

6- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).

7- Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball. Using your fingers, poke a hole in the center of each ball and stretch it out until the hole is about 1-2 inches in diameter.

8- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the remaining honey. Boil the bagels in the water for 1-2 minutes on each side, then remove them from the water with a slotted spoon.

9- Beat the egg and water together in a small bowl. Brush the egg wash onto the bagels and sprinkle with sesame seeds or poppy seeds, if desired.

10- Bake the bagels for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

11- Remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.

Notes:

1- Montreal-style bagels are traditionally made with malt syrup instead of honey, but honey can be used as a substitute.

2- Wood-fired ovens are the preferred method of baking for Montreal-style bagels, but a regular oven can also be used.

3- Montreal-style bagels are usually eaten with cream cheese or butter, but they can also be served with smoked salmon or other toppings.

Nutrition Facts (per bagel):

• Calories: 210
• Total fat: 1g
• Saturated fat: 0g
• Trans fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 410mg
• Total carbohydrate: 43g
• Dietary fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 10g
• Protein: 6g

Montreal-style bagels are a delicious and unique variation of the classic bagel. Try making them at home for a tasty and satisfying breakfast or snack.