Eat This! Easy Homemade Pretzels!

FUN !!!! Last weekend after a few cocktails a friend of mine decided that she wanted to whip up some pretzels. As most of you know I am really not into long winded recipes especially those that yield baked goods. But I was drinking and it sounded like a fabulous idea! I have to say they were super easy to make. She already had all the ingredients as most of us do. This was actually pretty easy and the results were delicious! Of course I smothered mine with mustard but you could top yours with anything from the traditional salt to sugar and cinnamon. This recipe once perfected is perfect for a rainy day activity with kids or in our case a much needed nosh after some wine!

• 1 and 1/2 cups warm water (lukewarm, no need to take temperature)
• 1 packet active instant yeast (2 and 1/4 teaspoons)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 Tablespoon granulated sugar
• 3 ¾ - 4  cups Whole Wheat (and all purpose flour just do a 50/50 mix)
• 1 large egg, beaten
• course sea salt to top the pretzels

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 425F degrees.
2. Dissolve yeast in warm water. Stir with a spoon until mixed, about 1 minute. (don’t worry if some clusters still remain)Add salt and sugar; stir until combined. Slowly 1 cup at a time add 3 cups of  flour .
3. Mix with a wooden spoon until dough is thick. Add 3/4 cup more flour until the dough is no longer sticky.

(Poke the dough with your finger - if it bounces back, it is ready to knead.)

1. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead the dough for about 3 minutes and shape into a ball. With a sharp knife, cut ball of dough into 1/3 cup sections.

1. Roll the dough into a rope . Once you have your long rope, take the ends and draw them together so the dough forms a circle. Twist the ends, then bring them towards yourself and press them down into a pretzel shape.

1. In a small bowl, beat the egg and pour into a shallow bowl or pie dish. Dunk the shaped pretzel into the egg wash (both sides). Place on baking sheet and sprinkle with salt.
2. Bake for 10 minutes at 425F degrees. Turn the oven to broil and bake for 5 more minutes to brown the tops. Watch closely to avoid burning.

*Pretzels may be stored in an airtight container or zipped top bag for up to 3 days and they freeze really well!!!