Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups warm water around 105°F
- 4 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 4 cups all-purpose flour plus extra for dusting
- 8 cups water for boiling
- 1/3 cup baking soda
- Olive oil for brushing
- Coarse sea salt for topping
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Stir in the salt and melted butter, and then gradually add the flour until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, until it is easier to work with. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 45 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Meanwhile, in a large pot, bring 8 cups of water and the baking soda to a rolling boil.
- Turn the risen dough onto a lightly floured surface. Divide it into 6 equal pieces, roll each piece into a 15- to 20-inch rope, and cut into 1.5- to 2-inch pieces to form the pretzel bites.
- Working in batches, gently drop the pretzel bites into the boiling water for about 10-15 seconds. Remove them with a slotted spoon, letting excess water drain off, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the boiled bites lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 14-17 minutes until golden brown. Remove from the oven and serve warm.
