Evangelical Christians are not typically observant of the Lenten season, the 40 days prior to Easter. Such a shame! It can really be a lovely time of reflection and anticipation.
Today (Ash Wednesday) is the first day of Lent, and we celebrated by making soft pretzels. Tradition has it that the pretzel represents arms crossed in prayer. A reminder that these waiting days leading up to Easter are a particular opportunity for us to seek the Lord in prayer. The kids have a great time making the pretzels (or dough "whips," as they were for awhile today) and anticipating the finished goodness.
Since ancient times no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides you, who acts on behalf of those who wait for him. (Isaiah 6:4)
•Lenten Soft Pretzels•
Dissolve yeast in water:
1.5 c. warm water
1 (heaping) T. yeast
Mix:
4 c. unbleached flour (I use half w.wheat)
1 T. agave syrup (sugar or honey is fine)
1 t. salt
Add yeast mixture and knead together by hand or with bread hook. (Starting with 3 c. flour then adding the final cup as needed is a good idea.) Divide into pieces, roll with hands, shape into pretzel, and place on greased or parchment lined cookie sheet. Let rest for about 15 minutes.
Beat:
1 egg
splash of water
Brush pretzels with egg and sprinkle generously with salt. Bake at 425 degrees for 15-20 minutes.
Dissolve yeast in water:
1.5 c. warm water
1 (heaping) T. yeast
Mix:
4 c. unbleached flour (I use half w.wheat)
1 T. agave syrup (sugar or honey is fine)
1 t. salt
Add yeast mixture and knead together by hand or with bread hook. (Starting with 3 c. flour then adding the final cup as needed is a good idea.) Divide into pieces, roll with hands, shape into pretzel, and place on greased or parchment lined cookie sheet. Let rest for about 15 minutes.
Beat:
1 egg
splash of water
Brush pretzels with egg and sprinkle generously with salt. Bake at 425 degrees for 15-20 minutes.
ok, I loooove that picture of the girls. I want two girls just so I can fix adorable, matching hair like that!
ReplyDeleteOh, and the pretzels look super good, too! Such a good mom.
I will be sure to try that yummy pretzel recipe. Both of my girls gave up ribbon hair styles last year. I was soo sad. They would always have a ribbon to match their outfit.
ReplyDeleteHi Anna,
ReplyDeleteI wanted to stop by your blog and say "hello"! Thanks for stopping by mine.
Maybe I'll have to try my hand at these pretzels (though I'm not the world's best baker).
Take Care,
KB