A Delicious and Easy-to-Make Pretzels Recipe, Perfect for Air Frying
There's something delightfully satisfying about biting into a warm, soft pretzel, especially when it's made with love right in your own kitchen. Traditionally baked in an oven, pretzels can also be effortlessly prepared using an air fryer, making them a quicker and slightly healthier snack option. Follow along this detailed guide to create your own batch of air-fried pretzels. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 500g strong white bread flour, plus extra for dusting
- 10g salt
- 7g sachet of fast-action yeast
- 50g unsalted butter, melted
- 300ml warm water
- 2 tbsp bicarbonate of soda
- 1 tbsp caster sugar
- Sea salt flakes, for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the centre and pour in the yeast. Add the melted butter and warm water. Mix the ingredients together until they form a rough dough.
2. Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If you have a stand mixer with a dough hook, you can use this for convenience.
3. First Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and leave it to rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it has doubled in size.
4. Shape the Pretzels
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope and shape it into a pretzel. Unlike intricate bread sculptures, shaping pretzels is simple and fun.
5. Prepare the Soda Bath
In a large saucepan, bring approximately 2 litres of water to a boil. Add the bicarbonate of soda and sugar to the boiling water. Carefully dip each shaped pretzel into the soda bath for about 15 seconds. This step is crucial for achieving that classic pretzel crust and taste.
6. Air Fry the Pretzels
Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F). Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper, ensuring it has holes to allow air flow. Place the pretzels on the parchment paper and sprinkle with sea salt flakes. Air fry the pretzels for 8-10 minutes until they are a deep golden brown.
7. Enjoy!
Once your pretzels are done, take them out, let them cool slightly, and enjoy a delicious snack with your favourite dip, or simply eat them as they are!
Tips for Perfect Pretzels
- Flour Measurement: Ensure precise flour measurement for the perfect dough consistency.
- Kneading: Kneading is vital for gluten development, leading to airy and soft pretzels.
- Soda Bath: Ensure each pretzel is fully submerged to achieve that classic crust.
Why Use an Air Fryer?
The air fryer is a great kitchen appliance for many reasons. It provides the crunchy texture we love in fried foods without the extensive use of oil. For pretzels, the air fryer offers a quick baking time, even cooking, and a delightful crispy shell without compromising any flavour. Not to mention, it's an energy-efficient way to bake small batches without heating a whole oven.
Conclusion
These air-fried pretzels are a wonderful addition to your culinary repertoire. Not only are they delicious, but they also boast the perfect balance between soft and chewy with a hint of crunch. Pair them with honey mustard, cheese dips, or enjoy solo with a dash of butter. Whether hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night in, these pretzels are ideal for any occasion.