Ingredients and Weight: - 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet) - 1 1/2 cups warm water (105-115°F) - 1 tsp honey - 3 1/2 cups bread flour - 1 1/2 tsp salt - 1/2 cup food-grade lye
Preparation Time: - 30 minutes
Cooking Time: - 30 minutes
Difficulty Level: - 3 (Intermediate)
Preparation Method Steps: 1. In a large bowl, whisk yeast into warm water. Let stand until foamy, about 5 minutes. 2. Stir in honey, bread flour, and salt until a dough forms. 3. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until dough is smooth and elastic. 4. Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size. 5. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). 6. Punch down dough and divide into 8 equal pieces. 7. Shape dough pieces into desired bun shapes. 8. Dissolve lye in 2 cups of cold water in a large baking dish. 9. Dip each bun into the lye solution for 30 seconds. 10. Place buns on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. 11. Sprinkle with coarse salt. 12. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crusty. 13. Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack before serving.
Nutritional Information: - Calories: 280 - Fat: 5g - Carbohydrates: 40g - Protein: 10g
Dish Characteristics: - Soft and chewy interior - Crispy and salty exterior - Perfect for sandwiches, burgers, or dipping
User Comments: - "These pretzel buns are so delicious and easy to make!" - "The lye solution gives them the perfect crust." - "They're the perfect addition to any meal."
Special Precautions and Tips: - Lye is a caustic substance, so always wear gloves and protective eyewear when handling it. - Do not let dough rise too long, or the buns will become too dense. - If you don't have food-grade lye, you can use baking soda instead. However, the buns will not have the same chewy texture.