Sourdough Soft Pretzels Recipe
Ingredients
- 250g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
- 120ml (1/2 cup) warm water (about 43°C / 110°F)
- 100g (1/2 cup) active bubbly sourdough starter
- 20g (1 tbsp) unsalted butter, melted
- 10g (2 tsp) granulated sugar
- 5g (1 tsp) salt
- 2.5l (8 cups) water
- 60g (1/4 cup) baking soda
- Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
- Optional toppings: melted butter, mustard, or cheese sauce
Cooking Time: Total estimated time: 2 hours (including rising and baking time)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Add the active sourdough starter and stir to combine. Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until a shaggy dough begins to form. Drizzle in the melted butter, and continue to mix until the dough becomes elastic and slightly tacky, about 5 to 7 minutes of kneading by hand.
Step 2: First Rise
Shape the dough into a ball and place it back in the mixing bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, allowing the dough to rise in a warm environment until doubled in size, approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
Step 3: Shaping the Pretzels
Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Once the dough has risen, gently deflate it and divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope (about 45-50cm or 18-20 inches), then twist into a pretzel shape by forming a U, crossing the ends, twisting them once, and securing the ends to the top of the loop. Place the shaped pretzels onto the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Baking Soda Bath
In a large pot, bring 2.5 liters (8 cups) of water to a boil. Carefully add baking soda (it will fizz up, so be cautious). Using a slotted spoon, gently lower each pretzel into the boiling soda water, letting each pretzel bathe for 30 seconds on each side. Remove and drain the pretzels, returning them to the parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 5: Topping and Baking
Lightly sprinkle pretzels with coarse sea salt as desired. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until deeply golden brown. For a glossy finish, you can brush them with melted butter immediately after baking.
Cooling and Serving
Allow the pretzels to cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauces, such as mustard or a cheesy dip. Enjoy the perfect blend of sourdough tanginess and that revelatory pretzel chew we’ve come to love.
Conclusion
Crafting sourdough soft pretzels at home is not just a baking task; it’s a soulful endeavor that connects you to age-old traditions while creating joy in simple, flavorful bites. This recipe not only fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma but also brings the comforting certainty of delicious homemade food to your table. Pair these freshly baked pretzels with a cold brew or your favorite soup, and relish the moment. Whether you’re sharing with friends or enjoying them solo, may these pretzels bring warmth and delight to your culinary experiences.
