1 pkg. yeast
1/4 c. warm water
1 c. water
Pinch sugar
2 tsp. salt
4-5 c. flour
4 tsp. baking soda
4 c. water
Kosher coarse salt

Dissolve yeast in 1/4 cup warm water. Stir in 1 cup water and pinch of sugar. Pour into large bowl and add 2 teaspoons salt. Beat in flour, 1 cup at a time. Knead until dough feels elastic.

Place in buttered bowl; cover and let rise until doubled (about 1 hour). Shape into pretzels. Bring 4 cups of water with 4 teaspoons soda in it to a boil. Drop pretzels in one at a time, boil 1 minute or until pretzel floats. Remove and drain on towel. Place on cookie sheet and sprinkle with coarse salt. Bake at 475 degrees for 12 minutes. Freezes well. Makes 1 dozen.