Onion Fennel Breadsticks

STEP 1

Cook fennel seed in 10-inch skillet over medium heat 3-4 minutes or until toasted; set aside.

STEP 2

Melt butter in same skillet until sizzling; add onion. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, 8-10 minutes or until onion is softened.  Cool slightly.

STEP 3

Dissolve yeast in 1 1/4 cups warm water in bowl; stir in sugar. Let stand 5 minutes. Stir in 1 cup flour and 1 teaspoon salt until smooth. Add onion mixture, fennel seed and enough remaining flour to make dough easy to handle.

STEP 4

Turn dough onto lightly floured surface; knead 5 minutes or until smooth and elastic. (Dough will be soft and slightly sticky.) Place into greased bowl; turn greased-side up. Cover; let rise in warm place 1 hour or until double in size. (Dough is ready if indentation remains when touched.) Punch down dough; divide in half. Let stand 10 minutes.

STEP 5

Heat oven to 400°F.

STEP 6

Divide each half of dough into 12 equal pieces. With lightly floured hands, on lightly floured surface, form each piece of dough into 12-inch rope. Place onto greased baking sheets. Brush each breadstick with water; sprinkle with coarse salt and pepper. Bake 12-16 minutes or until lightly browned. Serve warm.