Bialys with Onion Filling
A classic Jewish-American roll, chewy and savory with a signature indented center filled with sweet, cooked onions and poppy seeds. A delightful alternative to a bagel, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
For 12 servings
7 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Make the Dough
- b.In the bowl of a stand mixer or a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, instant yeast, sugar, and 1.5 tsp of salt. Whisk to combine.
- c.Pour in the lukewarm water. Using the dough hook attachment on low speed or a wooden spoon, mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- d.Increase the mixer speed to medium-low and knead for 6-8 minutes, or knead by hand on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes, until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky.
- 2
Step 2
- a.First Rise
- b.Form the dough into a ball. Lightly oil a clean bowl and place the dough inside, turning it once to coat the top.
- c.Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel.
- d.Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for 60 to 90 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Prepare the Onion Filling
- b.While the dough is rising, heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- c.Add the finely chopped onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until they are very soft, translucent, and sweet. Avoid browning them.
- d.Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the poppy seeds, 0.25 tsp salt, and black pepper. Transfer the mixture to a small bowl to cool completely.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Divide and Rest the Dough
- b.Once the dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a lightly floured work surface.
- c.Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces (each about 75g). Roll each piece into a tight, smooth ball.
- d.Place the dough balls on the work surface, cover them with a clean kitchen towel, and let them rest for 20 minutes. This relaxes the gluten, making them easier to shape.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Preheat and Prepare for Baking
- b.While the dough rests, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- c.Sprinkle two baking sheets generously with cornmeal to prevent sticking.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Shape and Fill the Bialys
- b.Take one dough ball and flatten it into a 4-inch disc.
- c.Using your thumb and index finger, pinch and press down firmly in the center of the disc to create a deep, thin well about 1.5 inches wide. Leave a 1-inch puffy border around the edge.
- d.Place the shaped dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining dough balls, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- e.Spoon about 1-2 teaspoons of the cooled onion filling into the center well of each bialy.
- 7
Step 7
- a.Bake and Cool
- b.Bake for 12-15 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through, until the puffy edges are golden brown and the center is dry to the touch.
- c.Transfer the hot bialys to a wire rack to cool slightly.
- d.Serve warm with butter or cream cheese for the best experience.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best chewy texture, use bread flour. All-purpose flour can be substituted but will result in a softer, less chewy bialy.
- 2Ensure the onion filling is completely cool before adding it to the dough. A warm filling can make the dough difficult to handle.
- 3Don't be afraid to make the center depression deep and thin. It will puff up significantly during baking.
- 4Bialys are best enjoyed on the day they are made. They lose their signature texture quickly.
- 5To check if your yeast is active, you can 'proof' it first: dissolve the yeast and sugar in the lukewarm water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy before adding it to the flour.
Adapt it for your goals.
Filling
Add 1-2 cloves of minced garlic to the onions during the last minute of cooking for extra flavor.
ToppingTopping
Use toasted sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning in the filling instead of or in addition to poppy seeds.
FlourFlour
Replace up to 1/3 of the bread flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and denser texture. You may need to add a little extra water.
Savory TwistSavory Twist
Sprinkle a small amount of grated Parmesan or Gruyère cheese over the onion filling before baking.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Energy Source
Made from bread flour, bialys are a good source of complex carbohydrates, which provide sustained energy for your body and brain.
Rich in Antioxidants
Onions are packed with antioxidants, particularly quercetin, which helps combat inflammation and may support heart health.
Frequently asked questions
Each bialy contains approximately 180-190 calories, depending on the exact size and amount of filling.