Pretzels

Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 minutes until smooth. Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour until doubled.

Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper brushed lightly with oil.

Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope (about 20 inches long). Make a U-shape with the rope, cross the ends over each other twice, and press the ends onto the bottom of the U to form a pretzel shape.

In a large, wide pot, bring the water and baking soda to a rolling boil. Carefully drop 1-2 pretzels at a time into the boiling water for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spatula and place on the prepared baking sheets.

Sprinkle immediately with coarse pretzel salt. Bake for 12-15 minutes until dark golden brown and shiny.