Ingredients
Beef Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp mustard
- 1/4 cup pickle relish
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Dough
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Boiling & Finishing
- 10 cups water
- 2/3 cup baking soda
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Cook Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add Condiments: Stir in the ketchup, mustard, and pickle relish into the beef mixture. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld, then remove from heat.
- Mix In Cheese: Allow the beef mixture to cool slightly, then fold in the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly combined.
- Dissolve Yeast: In a large bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast and sugar in the warm water. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes or until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is activated.
- Make Dough: Add the flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms and begins to come together.
- Knead Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Shape Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release air. Divide the dough into 16 equal pieces.
- Fill Dough: Flatten each dough piece into a small circle. Place approximately 1 tablespoon of the beef and cheese filling into the center of each.
- Seal Dough: Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching all sides to seal completely. Roll each filled dough piece gently into a ball and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Boil Water: In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and 2/3 cup of baking soda to a rolling boil.
- Cook Pretzel Bombs: Carefully drop each pretzel bomb into the boiling baking soda water for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and return to the baking sheet.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush each pretzel bomb with the beaten egg to help achieve a shiny golden crust. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt for authentic flavor and texture.
- Bake: Bake the pretzel bombs in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until they turn a deep golden brown.
- Serve: Allow the pretzel bombs to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these warm, cheesy, and meaty treats as a satisfying snack or appetizer.
Notes
- You can substitute yellow mustard with Dijon or spicy mustard for a different flavor profile.
- If you want a softer pretzel, reduce baking soda in boiling water slightly or boil them for less time.
- The filling can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated for convenience.
- Be mindful when sealing the dough to avoid leakage during boiling and baking.
- Serve with mustard or cheese sauce dip for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American