I've always loved salted pretzels and making them at home is actually pretty easy (but a little time consuming) you need to prepare the dough and let it rise, then to bake them you soak in a baking soda bath for 10 seconds and then bake in the oven. It is well worth it as they are so delicious. Soft, savoury and yum!
These are perfect with some cheese sauce or you can have them with something sweet like melted chocolate.
The cheese sauce pictured is by Hello Friend Foods (very tasty vegan cheese!)
RECIPE:
This made about 12 to 14
1 tsp instant yeast 1/2 cup warm water 1 tbsp brown sugar
3 cups self raising flour 1/2 cup plant based butter or margarine, melted 1/2 cup plant milk (I used soy)
Pinch of salt
1 tbsp olive oil for brushing Sesame seeds for sprinkling (optional) 1/2 cup baking soda
In a small bowl, combine the instant yeast with the water and sugar. If using sachets, use two. Mix together and let it sit for 5-10 mins until it thickens.
Melt the margarine or butter in the microwave, then combine in a bowl with the flour, milk and sugar. Once the yeast has thickened, add it to the bowl and mix together to form a soft dough, it should be slightly sticky.
Knead for 2 to 3 mins, grease the bowl with a little oil and place the ball of dough inside. Cover with a towel or cling wrap and let it rest for about 1 hour until it doubles in size.
Once it has doubled in size, transfer to a clean floured surface and knead for another 2 to 3 mins. Cut the dough into smaller sections.
To shape the pretzels, roll each small piece out against the counter to form a rope. Each rope should be long and thin - about 50-55cm. Place on the counter in the shape of a āUā, twist the ends and then fold over. Repeat with remaining dough and place on a tray.
Preheat oven to 180 degrees celsius and meanwhile bring a large pot of water to the boil. Once boiled add the baking soda.
Drop each pretzel into the pot and let them cook for 10 seconds on each side. Gently remove from the water and repeat with remaining pretzels. Place on a lined baking tray and brush with a little olive oil. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and bake for about 15 mins or until they turn a golden brown.
Serve warm with your favourite dips!