Name: Country Ham and Cheddar Pretzel Bites with Jalapeño Mustard
Cook time: 1 hr
Total time: 4 hr
Yield: Makes 4 dozen hors doeuvres or snacks
Ingredients: 1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast; 2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon packed light brown sugar, divided; 1/4 cup warm water (110-115°F); 1 cup warm milk (110-115°F); 2 1/2 to 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup finely chopped country ham (3 oz; preferably Newsom's or Benton's), divided; 1/3 cup finely chopped sharp Cheddar, divided; 6 cups water; 4 teaspoons baking soda; 1/2 cup Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons finely chopped seeded fresh jalapeños; 1 tablespoon mild honey; 1/2 stick unsalted butter, melted; 1 to 2 tablespoons pretzel salt or coarse salt

Image may contain Dish Food Meal Bread Fried Chicken and Cracker

Country Ham and Cheddar Pretzel Bites with Jalapeño MustardJohn Kernick

Simultaneously salty, sharp, spicy, and sweet (in other words, completely irresistible), these nuggets are chef Edward Lee's way of saying, "You can have a casual meal without compromising true culinary endeavor." The tradition of serving mustard with a soft pretzel is strictly an American one; Lee makes his own honey mustard, jazzing it up with chiles. For sources for country ham and pretzel salt.

Cooks' notes:

•jalapeño mustard can be made 1 day ahead and chilled.
•Pretzels can be made 2 weeks ahead and frozen (once cooled). Thaw 30 minutes, then reheat in a 400°F oven about 10 minutes.

Recipe notes

Chocolate Guinness Cake

A generous glug of stout gives this snackable loaf a malty depth.

Hot Honey–Glazed Salmon

This broiled hot honey salmon recipe results in sweet, spicy, glossy fish coated in a homemade hot honey glaze for an easy weeknight dinner or make-ahead lunch.

One-Pot Chicken Thighs With Cilantro Rice and Beans

This one-pot dinner cooks chicken thighs directly on top of a bed of flavorful cilantro rice studded with black beans for a complete dinner.

Caramelized Onion Pasta

Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.

Classic French Vinaigrette

Use this simple vinaigrette to dress a plate of greens, some steamed potatoes, or anything else that strikes your fancy.

Béchamel Sauce

This classic 15-minute sauce is your secret weapon for homemade mac and cheese, chowder, lasagna, and more.

Speedy Chicken Stroganoff

This easy, one-skillet chicken stroganoff features tender chicken breasts, savory mushrooms, and a creamy Dijon-crème fraîche sauce—perfect for weeknights.

Cod With Lemon Butter Sauce

A flurry of fresh tarragon makes this speedy weeknight dish of seared cod and luscious, sun-colored pan sauce feel restaurant worthy.