More munchies for your football party this weekend...

Ham & Cheese Pretzel Bites
recipe adapted from The Culinary Couple

1 1/2 tsp active dry yeast
2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon brown sugar
1/4 cup warm water
1 cup warm milk
3 cups flour
1/2 cup finely chopped ham
1/3 finely grated cheddar cheese
6 cups water
4 teaspoons baking soda
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter, melted
1-2 tablespoons coarse salt

Mix together the yeast, 1 teaspoon brown sugar and warm water in a large bowl.  Let stand at room temperature until foamy.

In a separate bowl, combine the 2 tablespoons brown sugar and warm milk; stir until dissolved.  Stir 3 cups flour and milk mixture into the yeast mixture in the large bowl.  Mix until soft dough forms.

Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and knead to form a smooth ball.  Put in clean bowl, cover with plastic wrap and let rise about 2 hours, or until doubled.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees and line sheet pans with parchment.  Divide dough into 4 equal pieces.  Stretch and roll one piece on floured surface into a 12-inch rope, then flatten into a 12" by 8" rectangle with a rolling pin.  Press 1/4 of the ham and cheese onto the bottom third of the rectangle.  Stretch edge of dough over filling, pinch to seal, then roll tightly to a rope. 

Cut into 12 pieces and move to sheet pan.  Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.  Let bites rest at room temperature for 30 minutes.

Bring 6 cups water to a boil in a large pot.  Add the baking soda and reduce heat to keep water at a simmer.  Cook bites a few at a time in the water, for about 20 seconds, turning once.  Remove with slotted spoon and return to baking sheet.

Bake at 400 degrees for 15 minutes, or until golden brown.  Brush with butter and sprinkle with salt.  Serve with whatever dipping sauce floats your boat (honey and mustard, ranch, barbeque) or just by themselves...yum!