Pretzel Buns

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 4 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Baking Soda Bath:

• 10 cups water
• 2/3 cup baking soda

For Topping:

• Coarse salt or pretzel salt
• Melted butter for brushing (optional)

Cooking Steps:

Step 1: Activate Yeast

1. In a bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Stir until sugar dissolves.
2. Sprinkle active dry yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.

Step 2: Prepare Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Pour the activated yeast mixture into the flour mixture.
3. Mix until the dough comes together.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Let Dough Rise

1. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 4: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Soda Bath

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil.
3. Slowly add baking soda to the boiling water. Be cautious as it may fizz up temporarily.

Step 5: Shape Pretzel Buns

1. Divide the risen dough into equal portions to form individual buns.
2. Roll each portion into a ball or shape it into a traditional pretzel shape.

Step 6: Boil Buns in Baking Soda Bath

1. Carefully place each bun into the boiling baking soda bath for about 30 seconds.
2. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the buns to a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 7: Sprinkle with Salt and Bake

1. Sprinkle the boiled buns with coarse salt or pretzel salt.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the buns turn golden brown.

Step 8: Optional Butter Brushing

1. Optionally, brush the baked pretzel buns with melted butter for added richness.

Step 9: Cool and Serve Allow the pretzel buns to cool on a wire rack. Once cooled, they are ready to be used for burgers, sandwiches, or enjoyed as desired.

These homemade pretzel buns offer a wonderful combination of softness on the inside and a satisfying chewiness on the outside. Enjoy the delicious, slightly tangy flavor that makes them a perfect complement to various dishes.