Sourdough Soft Pretzels

Ingredients

• 1 cup sourdough starter
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 3/4 cup warm water
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup baking soda
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• Coarse salt, for sprinkling

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter, sugar, and warm water. Mix until combined.
2. Add the flour and salt. Mix until a dough forms. Knead for 5 minutes.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and set aside in a warm place to rise for 1 hour.
4. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Grease a baking sheet with butter.
5. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope, about 18 inches long. Shape into pretzels.
6. In a medium bowl, combine the baking soda and melted butter. Dip each pretzel into the mixture and place onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. Brush each pretzel with the egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Serve warm.

Interesting Facts

• Soft pretzels are thought to have originated in Germany in the 12th century.
• In the United States, pretzels are most commonly associated with Pennsylvania.
• Using a sourdough starter adds a unique flavor to the pretzels.