✓ Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2/3 cup baking soda
– 1 egg yolk beaten with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash)
– 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– Optional toppings: coarse sea salt, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, chopped fresh herbs (e.g., parsley)
✓ Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Dough:**
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5 minutes, or until it starts to foam.
– Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until the dough starts to come together.
– Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic.
– Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
2. **Shape the Pretzels:**
– Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
– Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
– Roll each piece into a long rope (about 18-20 inches long). Flatten each rope slightly and place shredded mozzarella cheese along the center. Fold the dough over the cheese and pinch the edges to seal it in.
– Shape each rope into a pretzel by forming a U-shape, crossing the ends over each other, and then pressing the ends onto the bottom of the U.
3. **Baking Soda Bath:**
– In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil.
– Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water for 30 seconds, one at a time. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. **Bake the Pretzels:**
– Brush each pretzel with the egg wash and sprinkle with your choice of toppings.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the pretzels are golden brown.
5. **Serve:**
– Allow the pretzels to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm!
Feel free to adjust the toppings and cheese according to your preferences. Enjoy your homemade mozzarella stuffed soft pretzels!