Rosemary Sea Salt Pretzel Bites

Lasagna is often celebrated as one of Italy's most cherished culinary contributions, a dish that embodies warmth, comfort, and familial bonds. This layered pasta dish, featuring harmonious combinations of rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked noodles, serves not only as a meal but also as a centerpiece for gatherings and celebrations. Whether it’s a Sunday family dinner, a holiday feast, or a cozy weeknight meal, homemade lasagna has a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of many.

Discover the art of creating the perfect homemade lasagna with this ultimate guide. From its rich history and diverse global variations to selecting high-quality ingredients like fresh pasta and creamy cheeses, this article covers it all. Learn step-by-step techniques for making a delicious meat sauce, crafting the ideal cheese layers, and perfecting the baking process. With tips for serving and storing your masterpiece, you’ll be ready to impress friends and family with a comforting dish that brings everyone together. Enjoy the joy of cooking and the warmth of sharing a classic favorite!

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Ingredients

1 ½ cups warm water (110°F to 115°F)

1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast

1 tablespoon granulated sugar

4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting

1 teaspoon kosher salt

½ cup baking soda

1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)

2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped

Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling

Optional: 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing after baking)

Instructions

Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.

Make the Dough: Once frothy, add the flour, kosher salt, and chopped rosemary to the yeast mixture. Mix until the dough begins to come together, then knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased 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.

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Shape the Pretzel Bites: Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into smaller sections. Roll each section into a long rope (about 1 inch thick), then cut into bite-sized pieces, roughly 1 inch long.

Prepare the Baking Soda Bath: In a large pot, bring about 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil. Carefully drop the pretzel bites in batches, cooking for 30 seconds each. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them back to the lined baking sheets.

Egg Wash & Salt: Brush each pretzel bite with the beaten egg to give them a nice shine. Sprinkle generously with coarse sea salt.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up.

Optional Butter Finish: For added flavor, brush the pretzel bites with melted butter immediately after removing them from the oven.

Serve: Allow the pretzel bites to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like mustard or cheese sauce!

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes | Servings: 24 pretzel bites