What to Eat with Big Pretzels: A Comprehensive Guide to Pretzel Pairings

Pretzels, those delectable twisted treats, have captivated taste buds for centuries. Their unique blend of salty crunch and doughy softness makes them a versatile snack that can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a variety of accompaniments. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply seeking a satisfying snack, understanding what to eat with big pretzels will elevate your culinary experience.

Classic Pretzel Pairings

1. Cheese Dip: The quintessential pretzel companion, cheese dip adds a creamy richness that perfectly complements the salty crunch of pretzels. From classic cheddar to flavorful blue cheese, the options are endless.

2. Mustard: A tangy and spicy addition, mustard adds a zesty kick to pretzels. Whether you prefer classic yellow mustard or adventurous honey mustard, the possibilities are limitless.

3. Hummus: A healthy and flavorful dip, hummus offers a creamy and nutty base that pairs wonderfully with pretzels. Choose from traditional chickpea hummus to innovative flavors like roasted red pepper or black bean.

Sweet Pretzel Pairings

4. Chocolate Fondue: Indulge in a decadent treat by dipping pretzels into rich and velvety chocolate fondue. The combination of salty and sweet creates an irresistible flavor explosion.

5. Strawberry Jam: For a fruity and sweet pairing, spread strawberry jam on pretzels. The tartness of the jam balances the saltiness of the pretzels, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.

Savory Pretzel Pairings

6. Spinach and Artichoke Dip: This creamy and cheesy dip, brimming with spinach, artichoke hearts, and spices, adds a savory and satisfying touch to pretzels.

7. Salsa: Bring a touch of Mexican flair to your pretzels with salsa. The vibrant flavors of tomatoes, onions, and chili peppers create a lively contrast to the salty crunch.

Soup and Pretzel Pairings

8. Beer Cheese Soup: Immerse your pretzels in a warm and comforting bowl of beer cheese soup. The rich and cheesy broth, infused with the subtle flavor of beer, pairs perfectly with the salty crunch of pretzels.

9. Caramel Sauce: For a sweet and sticky treat, drizzle caramel sauce over pretzels. The rich and decadent caramel adds a luscious layer of flavor that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Additional Pretzel Pairings

10. Nuts: Add a crunchy and nutritious element to your pretzels by pairing them with nuts. Almonds, walnuts, or pecans provide a satisfying contrast to the salty crunch of pretzels.

11. Dried Fruit: Introduce a touch of sweetness and chewy texture to your pretzels with dried fruit. Raisins, cranberries, or apricots add a vibrant burst of flavor and natural sweetness.

The world of pretzel pairings is vast and varied, offering endless possibilities to satisfy your taste buds. From classic cheese dip to innovative chocolate fondue, the perfect accompaniment for your big pretzels awaits your discovery. Experiment with different combinations and find your favorite pairings that will make your pretzel-eating experience truly unforgettable.

Quinoa Salad

Enhance your pretzel meal with a refreshing quinoa salad. This substantial salad, which is high in protein, blends the fluffy texture of quinoa with the crunch of fresh vegetables. To add a zesty twist and create a vibrant, refreshing contrast to your soft pretzels, try adding a lemon vinaigrette.

Strawberry Jam

Strawberry jam is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a traditional sweet and tangy treat. The jam’s sweet fruitiness balances the pretzel’s saltiness, creating a delightful sweet-and-salty combination. Strawberry jam, whether made from scratch or purchased from the store, brightens up your pretzel meal with a flavorful burst.

Pour some warm chocolate fondue over your soft pretzel snack to transform it into a decadent dessert. The salty pretzel and the rich, sweet flavors of the melted chocolate combine to make an amazing and mouthwatering combination. This combination is not only delicious, but it’s also a delightful and engaging snack or dessert that will wow anyone.

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FAQ

How do you serve large pretzels?

In addition to dip, you can also add toppings to your pretzels. Common toppings include parmesan, cinnamon sugar, raisin, jalapeno, ranch, garlic, and almond crunch. While most of these toppings are added before baking, you can also add them after.

What are pretzels traditionally eaten with?

While salt’s usually the go-to topping, a typical pretzel will see a side of cheese sauce or mustard to dip. Other toppings for pretzels have expanded to include cinnamon, powdered white/brown sugar, glazes (typically sweet ones), seeds, and nuts.

What can I dip pretzels in?

There is no hard and fast rule with dips so if you love a good hot crab dip, French onion dip, ranch dip or even hummus, go ahead. Food Network Kitchen’s Giant Spinach Dip-Stuffed Pretzel, as seen on Food Network.