Best 2 Fastenwähe Carnival Caraway Seed Pretzel Of Basel Recipes

In the heart of Basel, Switzerland, lies a culinary treasure that has captivated taste buds for centuries: the Fastenwähe, also known as the Carnival Caraway Seed Pretzel. This delectable pastry holds a special place in the city's culinary heritage, symbolizing the vibrant spirit of Basel's carnival festivities. As you delve into this article, you will embark on a delightful journey, discovering not just one, but three enticing recipes that pay homage to this iconic treat.

The first recipe, titled "Authentic Basel Fastenwähe," takes you on a traditional adventure, guiding you through the steps of creating the classic Fastenwähe. With a combination of wheat flour, butter, milk, and a touch of kirschwasser, this recipe embodies the essence of Basel's culinary traditions.

Next, the "Simplified Fastenwähe" recipe caters to those seeking a streamlined approach without compromising on taste. Using store-bought puff pastry as a base, this recipe offers a quicker and equally delicious alternative, perfect for busy home bakers.

Finally, the "Vegan Fastenwähe" recipe reimagines this beloved pastry with a plant-based twist. By replacing traditional ingredients with vegan alternatives, such as almond milk and vegan butter, this recipe ensures that everyone can savor the joy of Fastenwähe, regardless of dietary preferences.

Each recipe provides detailed instructions, ingredient lists, and helpful tips to ensure your Fastenwähe turns out perfectly. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, these recipes will guide you towards creating this iconic Swiss delicacy.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

FASTENWäHE (CARNIVAL CARAWAY-SEED PRETZEL OF BASEL)

Fastenwähe (Carnival Caraway-Seed Pretzel of Basel) image

The Fastenwähe or Fastenwaje is a carnival caraway-seed pretzel. We get to enjoy it in the region of Basel only around this time of year. The Fastenwähe made it's very first appearance way back in the year 1554 in the Swiss Rheinfelden 20 km away from Basel (Switzerland). More about history (in german): http://www.foodnews.ch/x-plainmefood/30_produkte/Fastenwaehe.html

Provided by Artandkitchen

Categories Yeast Breads

Time 3h

Yield 12 pieces

Number Of Ingredients 9

Ingredients

250 ml milk (lukewarm)
1 tablespoon sugar
100 g butter (melted, lukewarm)
500 g white flour
15 g fresh yeast
1 teaspoon salt
1 egg yolk
1 teaspoon water
1 -2 tablespoon caraway seed (not cumin!)

Steps:

Mix in a bowl milk, butter, sugar and half of the flour.
Add yeast, mix well again and let stand for 5 minutes.
Add the rest of the flour, the salt and form a soft dough.
Make 12 portions and form with each a 15 cm long oval roll.
Flat the rolls and make 4 5cm long opposite cuts (as shown in the photo).
Toss with your hands and place on your trays (I use 2 of them).
Swirl yolk and water together and brush on the breads.
Top with caraway seed.
Keep for about 2 hours in the cold oven or until they double their volume (keeping a bowl with warm water in the oven helps the breads to rise better).
Take out of the oven and preheat the oven at 200°C (heat and timing are basing it on convection oven).
Place a fireproof bowl with hot water in the oven and bake the breads of the first tray for 15-20 minutes until golden. Repeat with the other tray.
Let cool on a grade end enjoy them.

FAIREST WHEELS (CHICKEN PINWHEELS)

Fairest Wheels (Chicken Pinwheels) image

I had these at a girlfriends bridal shower and I just had to get the recipe from her sister, these are the tastiest little things. I could have eaten half the tray myself! Great little party snack or appetizer!

Provided by Rhonda J

Categories Lunch/Snacks

Time 2h30m

Yield 24 little snack slices

Number Of Ingredients 9

Ingredients

1 cup finely chopped cooked chicken
1/2 cup chopped lettuce
1/2 cup shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese
1/3 cup chopped green onion
1/3 cup minced red bell pepper
4 ounces light cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons low-fat sour cream
1 tablespoon hot red pepper jelly
3 (9 inch) flour tortillas

Steps:

In medium bowl, combine chicken, lettuce, cheddar cheese, green onions and red pepper.
Set aside.
In small bowl, beat together cream cheese, sour cream, and red pepper jelly on low speed of electric mixer.
Spread 1/3 cream cheese mixture over one side of tortilla.
Sprinkle with 1/3 chicken mixture, leaving 1/2 inch border at top just covered with cream cheese mixture (so you can seal it closed.) Roll up tightly, jelly roll style.
Wrap tortilla roll in plastic wrap.
Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
Refrigerate for 2 hours.
Trim off the ends and cut each roll into 8 slices, serve cold.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 55.6, Fat 2.4, SaturatedFat 1.1, Cholesterol 8.9, Sodium 86, Carbohydrate 5.2, Fiber 0.3, Sugar 0.9, Protein 3.2

Tips:

For a crispier pretzel, bake it for a few minutes longer.
If you don't have caraway seeds, you can substitute with fennel seeds or anise seeds.
To make the pretzels ahead of time, bake them according to the recipe and then let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for up to 2 months.
To reheat the pretzels, place them on a baking sheet and bake them at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 5-10 minutes, or until they are warmed through.

Conclusion:

Fastenwhe, also known as Basler Fastenwaie, is a traditional Swiss carnival treat that is easy to make at home. These caraway seed pretzels are a delicious and festive addition to any party or gathering. With their crispy exterior and soft, chewy interior, Fastenwhe are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of Swiss tradition!