Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) rapid-rise yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Coarse salt, for sprinkling
If you’re out of mozzarella, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a spicy twist. The beauty of home cooking, as I learned from my grandmother, is in adapting recipes to fit your pantry and your palate.
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Stir in the warm water and melted butter. Mix until a dough forms.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic. This step always reminds me of rolling out tortillas with my siblings, the rhythm of kneading bringing us together.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour, until it doubles in size.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope, about 18 inches long, and flatten slightly. Place a few cubes of mozzarella along the length of each rope, then fold the dough over the cheese and pinch the edges to seal.
- Shape each piece into a pretzel by forming a U-shape, crossing the ends, and pressing them down onto the bottom of the U.
- In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil. Carefully add the baking soda (it will bubble up) and gently lower the pretzels into the boiling water, one at a time, for 30 seconds. This step is critical for that classic pretzel texture and reminds me of assisting with the bubbling cauldrons of soup back home.
- Remove the pretzels with a slotted spoon and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Brush with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Let them cool slightly before enjoying the cheesy goodness inside.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International