A German pretzel, also known as “Brezel” or “Bretzel” in German, is a type of baked bread product that is typically twisted into a knot-like shape. It is one of the most iconic and popular snacks in Germany, often associated with Bavarian cuisine.
German pretzels have a distinctive appearance with a brown and slightly crispy crust, while the inside is soft and chewy. They are made from a simple dough consisting of flour, water, yeast, salt, and sometimes a touch of sugar. The dough is shaped into a knot, then briefly boiled in water containing baking soda, which gives the pretzels their characteristic flavor and chewy texture. After boiling, they are sprinkled with coarse salt and baked until golden brown.
Traditionally, German pretzels are enjoyed plain or served with mustard as a savory snack. They are commonly found in beer gardens, bakeries, and food stalls throughout Germany. In recent years, variations of pretzels with different toppings or fillings have become popular, including cheese-stuffed pretzels or pretzel buns used for sandwiches.
German pretzels are not only popular in Germany but have also gained international recognition and can be found in various countries around the world.