Ingredients
1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
1 tbsp granulated sugar
4 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp kosher salt
2/3 cup baking soda
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Coarse sea salt for topping
Directions
1. In a large bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F) and 1 packet of active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp). Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Add 1 tbsp of granulated sugar to the yeast mixture and stir until dissolved.
3. Gradually add 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 2 tsp of kosher salt to the mixture. Mix until a dough begins to form.
4. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and 2/3 cup of baking soda to a boil.
8. Once the dough has risen, divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 18 inches long and shape into a pretzel.
9. One at a time, carefully place each pretzel into the boiling water for about 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spatula and place on the prepared baking sheets.
10. Brush each pretzel with the melted 2 tbsp of unsalted butter and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the pretzels are a deep golden brown.
12. Allow to cool slightly before serving.