Southern Beer Cheese & Pretzels

steps

Beer Cheese

1. Seed and vein jalapeños, then rough chop.
2. In food processor, combine Sriracha, jalapeños, salt and cream cheese. Once combined, blend until smooth.
3. Slowly add half of the cheddar cheese.
4. Then add beer and remaining cheddar cheese and blend until smooth.

Pretzels

1. In mixer, whisk to combine yeast and 3 cups of lukewarm water with 2 tablespoons of sugar. Allow to bloom 10 to 12 minutes.
2. Add oil, salt, remaining sugar and flour and mix on medium until slightly loose dough is formed (approximately 5 minutes). If dough is dry, add more water to mixture slowly. Turn into oiled bowl and allow to proof until doubled size.
3. Portion into individual ¾ ounce rods on large sheet trays allowing space between each.
4. Combine baking soda and 8 cups of hot water in mixing bowl. Dunk each rod in mixture and return to sheet trays. Slash each rod about a quarter inch deep three times on bias.
5. Bake at 475 degrees in conventional oven for approximately 12 minutes. Immediately brush with clarified butter and season with kosher salt.