Ingredients

(Serves 14)

• 1 package active dry yeast
• 2 teaspoon brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 1 cup bread flour
• 3 cups whole-wheat flour
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup wheat gluten
• Cooking spray
• 1/4 cup baking soda
• 1 egg white or 1/4 cup egg-substitute
• 1 tablespoon of sesame, poppy or sunflower seeds

Directions

In the bowl of a food processor, dissolve yeast, sugar, salt and warm water. Let sit 5 minutes. Add flours, olive oil and gluten. Mix by hand or in a food processor with a dough hook for 5-10 minutes, until a smooth dough forms and pulls away from bowl. Spray inside of bowl with cooking spray, so dough does not stick. Cover with plastic and place in warm place for approximately 1 hour, until doubled in size.

Punch dough down, and divide into 14 pieces. Then roll into long ropes. One at a time, make U shape with a single rope, then cross ends over and pinch in the bottom of the U shape, making the traditional pretzel shape.

Bring 8-10 cups of water to rolling boil with 1/4 cup baking soda. Add pretzels one by one and cook for 30 seconds in water. Remove with spatula to parchment-lined baking pan. Brush with egg white or egg-substitute and top with your choice of sesame, poppy or sunflower seeds. Bake in a 450 F oven for 10-15 minutes, until dark brown.