Ingredients:

  • 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp or 7g) active dry yeast
  • 1 ½ cups (360ml) warm water (about 100°F or 38°C)
  • 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons (12g) salt
  • 10 cups (2.4L) water (for baking soda bath)
  • 2/3 cup (160g) baking soda
  • Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast; let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture; mix until a dough forms.
  3. Transfer dough to a floured surface; knead for approximately 5-7 minutes until smooth.
  4. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  5. In a large pot, bring water and baking soda to a gentle simmer.
  6. Divide dough into 8 equal pieces; roll each piece into a long rope and twist into a pretzel shape.
  7. Carefully submerge each shaped pretzel in the baking soda bath for about 30 seconds, then remove using a slotted spoon.
  8. Place pretzels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; sprinkle with coarse salt.
  9. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
  10. Let them cool slightly before serving; enjoy warm!