Recipe: German Soft Pretzels

GERMAN SOFT PRETZELS

1 package active dry yeast
1 cup lukewarm water
2 1/2 to 3 cups all-purpose flour, divided use
2 tbsp oil
1 tbsp sugar
6 tbsp. baking soda dissolved in 6 cups water
Coarse salt
Butter or mustard (for serving)

In a bowl, dissolve yeast in 1 cup lukewarm water. Add 1 1/2 cups of the flour, oil and sugar. Beat for about 3 minutes to make a smooth batter.

Gradually stir enough of the remaining flour (about 1 cup) to form a soft dough. Turn out on floured board and knead until smooth and satiny (about 5 minutes), adding flour as needed to prevent sticking.

Place dough in a greased bowl, turn to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled (about 1 hour).

Punch dough down, divide into 12 pieces. Shape each into a smooth ball by gently kneading. Then roll each into a smooth rope about 18-inches long, and twist into a pretzel shape (form as if making a heart shape, and twist rope around itself at the top of the heart and put ends underneath the bottom of the 'heart'). Place slightly apart on a greased baking sheet. Let rise uncovered until puffy, about 25 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a 3 quart enameled or stainless steel pan (not aluminum) bring soda water mixture to a boil, adjust heat to keep water boiling gently.

With a slotted spatula, lower 1 pretzel at a time into pan. Let simmer for 10 seconds on each side, then lift from water, drain briefly, the sprinkle with coarse salt and let stand, uncovered till all have been simmered.

Bake in a preheated 425 degree F oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown. Transfer to racks.

Serve warm with butter or mustard. Or let cool completely, wrap airtight, and freeze. To reheat, place frozen pretzels on ungreased baking sheets and bake in preheated 400 degree F oven for about 10 minutes.

Makes 1 dozen pretzels