Tasty Bites: Soft Pretzel

Getting Started with Pretzel Making

There's something incredibly satisfying about making your own pretzels at home. From the twisting of the dough to the golden brown finish, it's a process that's as fun as it is delicious. Today, we'll guide you through the simple step-by-step process of making pretzels at home.

Gathering Your Ingredients

Before we dive into the process, let's gather the necessary ingredients. You'll need:

• 1 and 1/2 cups of warm water
• 1 package of active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
• 4 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• Coarse sea salt for topping

Preparing the Dough

First, dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Once it's frothy, add the salt and brown sugar, stirring until everything is well combined. Gradually add the flour, mixing until the dough is smooth and pulls away from the side of the bowl. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it's elastic and smooth.

Shaping the Pretzels

Now comes the fun part – shaping the pretzels! Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 18 inches long. Twist the ends of the rope together to form a pretzel shape. Don't worry if it's not perfect, the beauty of homemade pretzels is in their uniqueness!

Final Steps

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Beat the egg with a splash of water and brush this mixture over your pretzels. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Enjoy Your Homemade Pretzels

And there you have it – delicious, freshly baked pretzels made right in your own kitchen. Whether you're pairing them with a hearty dip or enjoying them on their own, these pretzels are sure to be a hit. Happy baking!