Bagels

Bagels stem from an Eastern European-Jewish baking tradition, and are a staple food for many New Yorkers.

They are easy to prepare. The formed bagels are immersed in simmering water before baking, imparting stability and sheen to the crust. Poached breads are rare, though bagels are not the only ones—pretzels and a crisp Italian version of pretzels, taralli, are also poached before baking.