Taralli (Italian Pretzels)

1. 1

   Dissolve the yeast in the water.

2. 2

   Add enough of the flour to make a soft, smooth dough; cover the bowl and leave in a warm place to rise (approximately 30 minutes).

3. 3

   Sift the remaining flour and salt together and make a well in the middle.

4. 4

   Fill the well with the risen dough and mix well.

5. 5

   Knead vigorously, adding a little more water if necessary, until the dough is smooth and elastic.

6. 6

   Roll into a ball; place in a large bowl and leave covered with a damp cloth in a warm place for approximately 2 hours, or until the dough has doubled.

7. 7

   Divide the dough into 24 pieces.

8. 8

   Roll into small sausages 1/2-inch thick.

9. 9

   Shape each sausage into a ring, closing the ends firmly together.

10. 10

    Arrange them on a floured baking sheet and leave to rise in a warm place for approximately 2 hours.

11. 11

    Sprinkle the rings with fennel seeds and bake in a moderate oven (375F) for approximately 1 hour.

12. 12

    They must be crisp.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

No additional tips available.