Pretzel

A pretzel (French: Bretzel, Alsatian: bradchdal, German: Breze or Brezel) is a baked snack that originated in Germany. It is traditionally twisted into a unique knot-like shape. The pretzel dough is made from wheat flour and yeast. Before baking, it is dipped into "Natronlauge" (English: sodium lye, sodium hydroxide solution (NaOH) or sodium carbonate solution (Na₂CO₃)) and sprinkled with coarse salt. During baking, a Maillard reaction then gives the pretzel its characteristic brown color and distinctive flavor. In Bavaria, it is obligatory in a Weißwurst breakfast.

A german pretzel.

Because they are made mostly of wheat, pretzels can be problematic for people who have wheat allergy, coeliac disease, or wheat intolerances.

There are different types of pretzels, like chocolate pretzels.

Other websites

• Sturgis Pretzel House: Pretzel History Archived 2007-05-20 at the Wayback Machine
• German Brezel History
• Video Clips of Pretzel
• History at Snyders of Hanover Archived 2007-05-13 at the Wayback Machine