The Shape of the Brezel
There are many stories for the origin of the traditional shape of
the Brezel. It is a kind of knot made from a long thin roll of dough,
crossed over twice and the (thinner) ends pressed into the thicker
middle bit, making it look something like the letter 'B'. The usual
explanation for its shape is that some high Churchman commissioned
a baker to make something to represent the Trinity. The Brezel has
three spaces between the parts of the knot. This makes it very practical
for children and for eating in the street generally, you can hook
it round your little finger while reading the paper. The
Brezel is about the size of a man's hand and the wider part of
the dough is soft. It is only very remotely related to the hard
and dry pretzels you get at parties. These are also sold in Germany,
but not in kiosks on the street, you'll find them instead on the
supermarket shelf alongside crisps and breadsticks. |
