In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water and 2 teaspoons of instant yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. Then, add 4 teaspoons of sugar, 3 cups of bread flour, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If sticky, sprinkle with more flour as needed.
Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, until doubled in size.
Punch down the risen dough, divide it into 8 equal pieces, roll into balls, and poke a hole through the center to shape into bagels. Stretch the hole to 1-2 inches in diameter.
Place the shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with a damp cloth and let rest for another 30 minutes.
In a large pot, bring 2 quarts of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of sugar and 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Boil bagels for about 1 minute on each side.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Transfer boiled bagels back to the baking sheet, brush tops with warm water, and sprinkle with flour if desired. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Remove baked bagels from the oven and let cool on a wire rack. Enjoy warm or store for later!
