Cheddar Jalapeño Soft Pretzels Recipe
Soft pretzels infused with the zesty kick of jalapeños and the savory goodness of cheddar cheese make for an irresistible snack or appetizer. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to craft these delightful treats in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients Required
To make these delectable Cheddar Jalapeño Soft Pretzels, gather the following ingredients:
- Flour: 3 cups
- Yeast: 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Cheddar cheese: 1 cup, shredded
- Jalapeños: ⅓ cup, finely chopped
Preparing the Dough
Begin by mixing the flour, yeast, and salt in a large bowl. Slowly incorporate warm water into the dry ingredients until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Adding Cheddar and Jalapeños
Once the dough is ready, gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and finely chopped jalapeños. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough for a burst of flavor in every bite.
Shaping the Pretzels
Divide the dough into portions and roll each piece into a long rope. Form these ropes into a traditional pretzel shape, crossing the ends and pressing them into the dough to secure.
Boiling the Pretzels
Prepare a boiling solution of water and baking soda in a large pot. Briefly boil each pretzel for about 30 seconds before removing them and placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Baking Process
Preheat your oven and bake the pretzels until they turn a golden brown hue, typically about 12-15 minutes. This baking time ensures a perfect combination of softness inside and a slightly crisp exterior.
Final Touches
Consider adding a sprinkle of extra cheese or jalapeños on top of the pretzels before baking for an added visual appeal and taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful Cheddar Jalapeño Soft Pretzels warm, accompanied by a choice of dipping sauces such as tangy mustard, creamy cheese dip, or a homemade jalapeño-infused sauce for an extra kick.
In conclusion, this recipe offers a delightful twist to the classic soft pretzel, elevating it with the bold flavors of cheddar and jalapeño. It’s a versatile snack that’s perfect for any occasion, sure to impress friends and family alike.
Unique FAQs
- Can I adjust the spice level of the pretzels?
- Absolutely! You can control the spice by adjusting the quantity of jalapeños added.
- Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?
- Yes, feel free to experiment with various cheeses to suit your taste preferences.
- Can I make the dough in advance and bake it later?
- Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it. Bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.
- How can I store leftovers?
- Store the leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to regain their freshness.
- Can I make smaller bite-sized pretzels with this recipe?
- Absolutely! Simply adjust the size of the dough portions to create smaller, bite-sized pretzels perfect for snacking.
Source: littlespicejar.com
Crispy Feta with Lemon Pepper Chicken and Rice Recipe
Looking for a dish that combines bold flavors and a satisfying crunch? This Crispy Feta with Lemon Pepper Chicken and Rice is the perfect choice. With its crispy cheese, zesty chicken, and fluffy rice, this meal offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes. Let's dive into the recipe and see how you can create this delicious dish in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken tenders
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons cumin seed
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- kosher salt and black pepper
- chili flakes
- 4 bell peppers, sliced I used red, orange, and yellow
- 1-2 fresno peppers, seeded and sliced
- 2 shallots, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 8 ounce feta cheese block, patted dry
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 3/4 cup mixed fresh herbs, cilantro, parsley, and dill
- optional rice for serving
- VINAIGRETTE
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon champagne vinegar
- 2 teaspoons honey
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 425° F.
2. On a baking sheet, toss together the chicken, 3 tablespoons olive oil, paprika, cumin, ginger, and a pinch each of salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Add the bell peppers, fresno, shallots, and garlic and toss with the chicken. Bake 25 minutes, until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, make the feta. Add the cornstarch to a shallow bowl. Add the block of feta and toss to coat all sides. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the feta and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until golden and crisp. Transfer the feta to a plate.
4. To make the vinaigrette, combine all ingredients in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper.