Bavarian Pretzel Sticks: A Tasty German Snack

Bavarian pretzel sticks are a type of soft pretzel that is often served as an appetizer with sides of mustard or cheese dip. They are known for their tender, chewy texture and dark golden, salt-crusted exterior. The traditional way of making them involves boiling the dough in an alkaline solution of lye and water, but modern recipes tend to use baking soda instead. They are a versatile food that can be incorporated into any meal, including sandwiches, and can be served as a side dish or snack.

How to make Bavarian pretzel sticks

Bavarian pretzel sticks are a soft, sweet variety of pretzel that can be served as an appetizer or incorporated into any meal. They are versatile and can be used in multiple applications, including sandwiches.

Ingredients:

• Enriched unbleached wheat flour (wheat flour, malted barley flour, ascorbic acid (added as a dough conditioner), enzyme, reduced iron, thiamine mononitrate, niacin, folic acid, riboflavin)
• Water
• Vegetable shortening (canola oil, palm oil, modified palm oil)
• Sea salt
• Yeast
• Malted barley extract
• Sodium hydroxide

Method:

First, preheat your oven to 375-400°F (190-205°C). Remove the Bavarian soft pretzels from the freezer and place 10-12 on a parchment paper-covered tray, leaving at least a 1-inch space between the pretzels.

Next, mist the pretzels with a fine mister (a plastic spray bottle) so that salt will stick to the surface. You can then sprinkle the pretzels with salt or leave them plain.

Place the tray into the preheated oven immediately. Do not let the tray stand too long once the pretzels are misted and salted. Bake for 4-8 minutes, depending on your oven. The finished product should be a dark amber color with white cuts. If the white cuts on the pretzels turn brown, immediately remove them from the oven.

Let the pretzels cool for 10 minutes before serving. Do not merchandise pretzels that are fully wrapped and bagged, as this will cause the product to sweat and prevent the salt from sticking properly.

Bavarian pretzel sticks can be served as an appetizer with sides of brown mustard, honey mustard, or cheese dip, or they can be used as a dip for a garden salad or entrée.

The history of Bavarian pretzel sticks

Bavarian pretzel sticks, or soft pretzels, are a traditional German food. They are characterised by their tender, chewy texture and dark golden, salt-crusted exterior. The pretzel stick is a versatile form of the pretzel, allowing for multiple applications, including sandwiches.

German pretzels were originally boiled in an alkaline solution of lye and water, which is corrosive and can be dangerous. This process gives the pretzel its distinctive colour and texture. However, modern recipes tend to mimic this technique by blanching the pretzels in baking soda water instead.

Bavarian pretzel sticks are easy to bake and can be prepared using multiple heating options. They can be served as an appetizer with dips such as mustard or cheese, or as an accompaniment to soups, salads, or entrees.

A traditional German-style pretzel recipe includes ingredients such as light brown sugar, warm water, active dry yeast, vegetable oil, kosher salt, and all-purpose flour. The dough is kneaded and shaped into pretzel sticks, then blanched in baking soda water before being baked in the oven. This creates the signature crispy exterior and chewy centre.

Bavarian pretzel sticks have become a popular food item worldwide, enjoyed for their unique taste and texture, and can be found in various settings, from bakeries to restaurants.

Where to buy Bavarian pretzel sticks

Bavarian pretzel sticks are a delicious snack, but where can you buy them? Well, you're in luck, as there are a few options to choose from. Firstly, you can try US Foods, which offers Bavarian-style pretzel sticks that are soft, sweet, and hand-scored for an authentic appearance. These pretzel sticks are a versatile option that can be served as an appetizer or incorporated into any meal. The best part is that they are easy to bake and can be prepared using multiple heating options.

Another option is to look for distributors or online retailers that stock the Bavarian Pretzel Stick (#35377) from Rich's USA. These pretzel sticks are fully baked and approximately 6.5 inches long by 2 inches wide. They are also unsalted, so you can choose to sprinkle them with salt or enjoy them as they are. You can find information about distributors and online retailers on the Rich's USA website.

Additionally, you may want to check your local grocery stores or specialty food shops, as they may carry Bavarian pretzel sticks, especially if they have a bakery section. Some larger retailers, such as Costco or Walmart, may also carry them, either fresh or frozen, so it's worth checking their bakery or frozen food sections.

Finally, if you're feeling adventurous, you can try making your own Bavarian pretzel sticks at home. There are many recipes available online, and you can find most of the ingredients at your local grocery store. It can be a fun project, and you'll end up with a delicious treat to enjoy. So, whether you buy them fresh, frozen, or make them yourself, Bavarian pretzel sticks are a tasty snack that you can enjoy in a variety of ways.

What to serve with Bavarian pretzel sticks

Bavarian pretzel sticks are tender, chewy, and boast a dark golden, salt-crusted exterior. They are delicious on their own, but if you want to serve them with some sides and dips, here are some ideas:

For a traditional German experience, serve the pretzel sticks with mustard. This classic condiment pairs perfectly with the salty, chewy pretzels. You can offer a variety of mustards, such as spicy brown mustard, sweet honey mustard, or even a whole-grain mustard for added texture.

If you're looking for a more indulgent option, consider serving the pretzel sticks with a side of ranch dressing. Chef Grant Achatz, a renowned chef known for his innovative cuisine, prefers this combination. The creaminess of the ranch dressing creates a delightful contrast with the crispy exterior of the pretzel sticks.

You can also offer a selection of dips and spreads to accompany the pretzel sticks. Consider options such as cheese dip, spinach dip, or even a warm beer cheese fondue. Soft pretzels are also commonly enjoyed with a side of warm German potato salad, which can be a delicious side dish to offer alongside the pretzel sticks.

For a heartier option, Bavarian pretzel sticks can be served with Bavarian beer hall pork shanks. This combination offers a true taste of Bavaria and makes for a satisfying meal. The salty, crispy pretzel sticks can complement the tender, flavourful pork shanks.

Lastly, for a sweet treat, you can serve the pretzel sticks with a selection of desserts. Swedish sugared sweet pretzels can be a fun option, offering a contrast of sweet and salty flavours. Other dessert ideas include gluten-free Vollkornbrot (German bread), rustic apple-rye bread, or Scandinavian rye bread. These sweet treats can provide a delightful end to your Bavarian-themed feast.

How to serve Bavarian pretzel sticks

Bavarian pretzel sticks are tender, with a dark golden, salt-crusted exterior and chewy centres. They are made by shaping yeasted dough into pretzel shapes, letting it rise, and then blanching the pretzels in baking soda water to create a crispy exterior. The egg wash gives the pretzels a sheen and helps the salt adhere.

There are several ways to serve Bavarian pretzel sticks. Firstly, you can eat them plain, enjoying the slightly sweet flavour and chewy texture. Alternatively, serve them with traditional yellow mustard, or, if you prefer, with ranch dressing. Soft pretzels are best served warm and freshly baked, but they can also be served at room temperature.

When serving, consider the drink you will offer alongside. Bavarian pretzel sticks pair well with a cold beer, especially if the pretzels are served with mustard. For a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing lemonade would also work well.

If you are serving a larger group, you could also consider providing a variety of dips and condiments to accompany the pretzel sticks. In addition to the mustard and ranch dressing, you could offer a cheese dip, a spicy salsa, or a sweet chilli sauce. This will add variety and allow your guests to customise their pretzel-eating experience.

Frequently asked questions