Easy Football Charcuterie Board with Pretzel Bites

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F to 115°F)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ cup baking soda
• 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
• 4 ounces aged cheddar cheese, cubed
• 4 ounces gouda cheese, cubed
• 8 ounces salami, rolled
• 8 ounces prosciutto, folded
• 1 cup assorted crackers
• 1 cup assorted nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
• 1 cup fresh grapes or berries
• 1 cup hummus or mustard for dipping

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pretzel Dough: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly, indicating the yeast is active.
2. Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms, then knead the dough for 5-7 minutes on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.
3. Let it Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth to retain moisture, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
4. Shape the Pretzel Bites: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide the dough into small pieces and roll them into bite-sized balls.
5. Prepare the Baking Soda Bath: In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water to a boil and add the baking soda carefully. Reduce to a simmer.
6. Boil the Pretzel Bites: Carefully drop the dough balls into the simmering water, cooking them for about 30 seconds on each side. Remove with a slotted spoon and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
7. Egg Wash and Bake: Brush the tops of the pretzel bites with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sea salt. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until they are golden brown.
8. Assemble the Charcuterie Board: While the pretzel bites are baking, arrange the cheeses, meats, nuts, crackers, fruits, and dips on a large board or platter.
9. Serve: Once the pretzel bites are baked, add them to the board while they are still warm.