1 pkg. dry yeast
1 1/2 c. warm water
4 to 4 1/2 c. flour
1 1/2 tsp. salt
butter, softened
4 tsp. baking soda
1 egg yolk, mixed with 1 tbsp. water
Coarse or kosher salt

Mix yeast in 1/4 cup warm water. In a large bowl, mix 3 cups flour, salt and sugar. Add dissolved yeast with remaining warm water. Add enough additional flour to make a stiff dough. Knead for 10 minutes, or until dough feels elastic. Form dough into a ball, place in clean bowl and spread top of ball with butter.

Cover with a clean towel and let rise for 45 minutes or until doubled, in a warm place. Separate dough into 10 to 12 balls, roll each ball between hands to form a coil about 20 inches long. Shape into pretzel shape, wetting ends of dough slightly and pinching ends together firmly.

Let rise for 10 to 20 minutes. Dissolve baking soda in 4 cups of water and bring to a boil. Drop pretzels into boiling water, one or two at a time. Boil for one minute or until pretzels float to the top. Remove from boiling water and drain. Place drained pretzel on a greased baking sheet. Brush with egg yolk solution and sprinkle lightly with salt if desired. Bake at 475 degree oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on wire racks. Serves: 10 to 12.