Sea Breeze Pretzels

Introduction

The Sea Breeze Pretzel is a delightful twist on the classic pretzel, infused with the fresh flavors of the coast. This recipe draws inspiration from seaside boardwalks where salty air and ocean views enhance the dining experience. Pretzels have a rich history that dates back to early medieval Europe. They were initially a simple bread made of water, flour, and salt—the traditional elements of a basic Lenten meal. Fast forward to today, pretzels have evolved, with countless variations around the world, each adding unique local flavors and ingredients. The Sea Breeze Pretzel infuses the timeless tradition of pretzel-making with the refreshing essence of the sea, featuring a touch of citrus and a sprinkle of sea salt.

Ingredients

• Flour - 3 cups
• Yeast - 1 packet (2 and 1/4 teaspoons)
• Sugar - 1 tablespoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Warm Water - 1 cup
• Citrus Zest (lemon or lime) - 1 tablespoon
• Baking Soda - 1/2 cup
• Coarse Sea Salt - for topping
• Melted Butter - 2 tablespoons

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the yeast, sugar, and warm water. Stir gently until the yeast is dissolved and let it sit for about 5 minutes, until the mixture foams. Add the flour, salt, and citrus zest to the bowl. Stir until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.

Step 2: Kneading and Rising

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. For cooking time, set aside ample minutes for relaxing your hands during the process.

Step 3: Shaping the Pretzels

Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Once the dough has risen, punch it down to deflate it. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long 20-inch rope and form into a traditional pretzel shape. Bring the ends together and twist once, then bring them up to the top of the circle.

Step 4: Baking Soda Bath

Boil 10 cups of water with the baking soda. Using a slotted spoon, carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling solution for 20-30 seconds. This step gives the pretzels their characteristic chewy exterior. Remove the pretzels and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 5: Baking

Brush each pretzel with a generous amount of melted butter and sprinkle with sea salt. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until they are deeply golden brown. Keep an eye on them during the cooking time to achieve the perfect crust.

Enjoying Your Sea Breeze Pretzels

Enjoy these Sea Breeze Pretzels fresh from the oven for the best taste and texture. The slight hint of citrus zest paired with the coarse sea salt makes these pretzels a refreshing twist on a classic favorite. Pair with a cool, refreshing drink like lemonade or iced tea for a delightful treat reminiscent of a day at the beach. These pretzels are perfect for snacking, parties, or an eccentric addition to a meal.