PA Dutch Soft Pretzels
By west757
The Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia offers a variety of food stalls and green grocers with items for sale everyday. On Wednesdays through Saturdays, Pennsylvania Dutch vendors bring their produce, meats, eggs and other items for sale at the market. The best loved stall (in my opinion) is Miller's Twist, formerly Fisher's. They sell the BEST soft pretzels available anywhere. The next time you are in Philly, check it out!
- 8
Ingredients
- 1 package dry yeast
- 1/4 cup warm water 105° to 115°F., 40° to 45°C.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup cold water
- 2 tablespoons baking soda
- Coarse salt
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Preparation
Step 1
Dissolve the yeast in the warm water in a l-cup liquid measure.
Process the flour and salt with the metal blade of a food processor for 5 seconds. With the motor running, pour the yeast mixture, then 1/2 cup cold water through the feed tube in a steady stream as fast as the flour absorbs it. Continue processing until the dough cleans the side of the bowl, then process 45 seconds more.
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured i-gallon plastic storage bag. Squeeze out the air and seal the bag at the top with a wire twist. Let rise about 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Mix the baking soda and remaining cold water together in a shallow bowl. Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 16-inch [40cm] rope and twist into a pretzel shape. Dip each in the baking soda solution and place on an oiled baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. Sprinkle with coarse salt.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes.
Remove from oven, brush with melted butter and cool slightly on wire racks. Serve warm.