Enjoy the authentic taste of pretzel buns right at home! This vegan recipe is simple, flavorful, and perfect for snacks, sandwiches, or as a side. The key is the baking soda solution, which gives the buns their characteristic shiny, brown crust.
Ingredients:
Dough:
500 g whole wheat or spelt flour
1 packet dry yeast (7 g)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
2 tablespoons olive oil
About 300 ml warm water
Lye Solution:
1 liter water
4 tablespoons baking soda (sodium bicarbonate)
Instructions:
Prepare the Dough:
Mix the flour, salt, sugar, and dry yeast in a bowl. Add the olive oil and about 300 ml of warm water. Knead everything into a smooth, elastic dough. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour.
First Rise:
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, until it has doubled in size.
Shape the Buns:
Divide the dough into equal portions and shape into round buns. Let them rest and rise again for 15-30 minutes.
Prepare the Lye Solution:
Pour the water into a large pot and slowly stir in the baking soda. Warm the mixture over stove level 3-4 (of 9) until it reaches about 60-65°C (around 140-150°F). It should be warm, but not boiling. Be careful with the lye, it is very corrosive.
Bake the Buns:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
Carefully dip each shaped bun into the warm baking soda solution for about 30. Use a slotted spoon or tongs. Then place them on a greased, floured baking try. (Do not use parchment paper.)
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the buns are brown and shiny.
Cool and Serve:
Let the pretzel buns cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
Enjoy your homemade vegan pretzel buns—perfect for a snack or a delicious sandwich!