~~ INGREDIENTS ~~
- ✦1/4 ounce active dry yeast (1 package)
- ✦1 cup warm water
- ✦1/4 cup granulated sugar
- ✦1 teaspoon salt
- ✦2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more if needed
- ✦Oil for greasing
- ✦7 cups water
- ✦1/2 cup baking soda
- ✦1 tablespoon coarse salt for sprinkling
~~ INSTRUCTIONS ~~
- 1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast, 1 cup warm water, sugar, and 1 teaspoon salt, stirring until the yeast is dissolved. Let stand for 5 minutes, or until the mixture is bubbly.
- 2
Gradually add the flour until a soft dough forms that is neither sticky nor dry, adding extra flour if necessary. Turn the dough out onto a clean work surface and knead until elastic and smooth, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- 3
Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in bulk.
- 4
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Lightly oil a large baking sheet and set aside.
- 5
Bring the 7 cups of water and baking soda to a rolling boil in a medium-large saucepan over medium-high heat.
- 6
Punch down the dough and turn out onto a clean work surface. Separate the dough into 8 pieces and roll each into a rope about 1/2-inch thick. Twist the ropes into pretzel shapes, securing both of the ends on the base of the pretzel.
- 7
Drop 1 pretzel at a time into the boiling water. Boil for about 30 seconds, remove using a slotted spoon, and transfer to the prepared baking sheet. Repeat this until all of your pretzels have been boiled.
- 8
Sprinkle with coarse salt and bake until golden brown, about 11 to 12 minutes. Allow pretzels to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.