Soft Pretzel with a Twist

Ingredients

In this Eastern European adaptation of the German Soft Pretzel, we incorporate Eastern European spices into the dough, giving it a unique flavor profile. Additionally, we use a combination of poppy seeds and sea salt for the topping, adding a distinct crunch and enhancing the overall taste. We alse have the original recipe for Soft Pretzel, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon (5g) active dry yeast 1 teaspoon (5g) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon (5g) sugar 1 teaspoon (5g) sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon (3g) salt 1/2 teaspoon (3g) salt
• 1/2 teaspoon (2g) caraway seeds 1/2 teaspoon (2g) caraway seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon (1g) paprika 1/4 teaspoon (1g) paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon (1g) garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon (1g) garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon (1g) onion powder 1/4 teaspoon (1g) onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon (1g) black pepper 1/4 teaspoon (1g) black pepper
• 1 cup (240ml) warm water 1 cup (240ml) warm water
• 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, melted 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons (30g) baking soda 2 tablespoons (30g) baking soda
• 1 egg, beaten 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon (15g) poppy seeds 1 tablespoon (15g) poppy seeds
• 1 tablespoon (15g) sea salt 1 tablespoon (15g) sea salt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 39g, 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, salt, caraway seeds, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the warm water and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. 3.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. 4.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. 6.
   In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the baking soda.
7. 7.
   Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and roll each portion into a long rope. Shape each rope into a pretzel by crossing the ends over each other and pressing them onto the bottom curve of the pretzel shape.
8. 8.
   Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water for about 30 seconds, then remove them using a slotted spoon and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
9. 9.
   Brush each pretzel with beaten egg and sprinkle them with poppy seeds and sea salt.
10. 10.
    Bake the pretzels for 12-15 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.
11. 11.
    Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Caraway seeds — Toast the caraway seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to enhance their flavor before adding them to the dough.

Tips & Tricks

• For a sweeter twist, brush the pretzels with melted honey or sprinkle them with cinnamon sugar before baking.
• Experiment with different toppings such as sesame seeds, grated cheese, or dried herbs for added flavor variations.
• Serve the pretzels warm with mustard or a creamy dip for a delightful appetizer or snack.

Serving advice

Serve the Eastern European Soft Pretzels warm as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. They pair perfectly with mustard, cheese dips, or even a traditional Eastern European soup.

Presentation advice

Arrange the pretzels on a platter, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve them alongside a small bowl of mustard or dip. The golden brown pretzels with their unique shape and toppings will be an eye-catching addition to any table.