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Beer and FoodSUPPLIES
- 6 frozen soft pretzels, thawed, baked, and cut into 1- to 2-inch nuggets
- 1 cup all purpose flour, plus flour for dusting
- 1 cup beer of your choice
- Vegetable oil
- Large pot
- Frying thermometer
- Slotted spoon
- Baking rack placed over paper towels to drain
- Salt, pepper, mustard (optional)
Overview
It seems that every October, people love to get into the German spirit for Oktoberfest. You do not have to be from Europe to appreciate the fine combination of beer and pretzels, but why not have them together? This quick and easy appetizer or side dish is perfect for any time of the year. It marries the qualities of beer and pretzels in one. Try having a bowl of these out at your next party, and you will see how fast they disappear. The trick to getting these crispy without being greasy is to be sure to your frying oil is hot enough.
Step 1
Fill the large pot with oil until it is 3 inches from the top.
Step 2
Clip the fry thermometer to the side of the pot with the bottom of the thermometer in the oil but not touching the bottom or sides of the pot. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 3
Toss the pretzel nuggets in flour to lightly coat them.
Step 4
Gently stir the flour and beer together to combine.
Step 5
Dredge the dusted pretzel nuggets in the beer batter to completely coat them.
Step 6
Drop the nuggets into the hot oil and fry until golden brown. If the oil temperature drops below 375 degrees Fahrenheit between batches of pretzel nuggets, turn the heat up until the oil temperature is again 375 degrees. Then resume frying the pretzels.
Step 7
Remove the pretzel nuggets with the slotted spoon as they become golden brown. Let cool on the baking rack that you have placed over sheets of paper towel to catch the grease.
Step 8
Serve warm with salt, pepper and mustard if desired.
TIPS AND WARNINGS
- WARNING : Do not overmix the flour and beer mixture.
