Have you ever experienced salt cravings in the summer? Salt sticks are one of those delicious summer snacks that satisfy this craving, and they are great for picnics and backpacks. Here is a recipe so that you can make some yourself. These salt sticks are not like the ones you buy, but they are delicious, vegan, and partially whole wheat. You can even adjust how much salt, if any, you want on them. Now, what do you say to that? When making these sticks, be careful not to knead the dough a lot, as that will develop the gluten too much, causing the sticks to become hard. Do make sure to use warm water, as the yeast needs a warm environment to do its work; the yeast helps to make the sticks tender. It is not necessary to let the dough rise before baking, as it will rise sufficiently in the oven. I know these sticks are a pain to cut, so if you don't care whether it is salt sticks or salt crackers, just cut into squares. Also, if you find an easy way to cut the dough into sticks, let me know! What are you picnic plans this summer? What is you favorite thing to pack in the basket?
Homemade Whole-Wheat Salt Sticks
Yield: About 4 c.
Ingredients: 1 1/2 c. (3 1/2 dl.) white wheat flour 1 c. (2 1/3 dl.) whole wheat flour 1 tsp. instant dry yeast 1 tsp. sugar 4 Tbsp. oil 3/4 c. (1 3/4 dl.) lukewarm water
1 to 1 1/2 tsp. salt, for sprinkling
Directions:
1. Mix dry ingredients except the last 1 to 1 1/2 tsp. salt. Massage oil into dry ingredients. Add lukewarm water and knead only till smooth.
2. Roll into 11 x 12 in. (28 x 30 cm.) square, sprinkle with reserved salt, and pat salt into dough. Place dough on baking sheet. (You can also just press dough onto baking sheet with hands.) Cut into sticks.
3. Bake at 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) for 30 min.
4. Let cool and carefully break apart. Store in airtight container or bag when fully cooled.
Scripture of the Day
Matthew 5:13
"You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet."
