Preparation Steps

• In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
• Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
• Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Bring 6 cups of water to a boil in a large pot and stir in baking soda (be careful—it will bubble vigorously).
• Punch down the risen dough and divide into 8 equal pieces. Roll each into a rope about 20 inches long, then form into a pretzel shape by crossing the ends over twice and pressing into the bottom.
• Carefully lower each pretzel into the boiling baking soda solution for 30 seconds. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them back to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Brush each pretzel with beaten egg yolk and sprinkle generously with coarse sea salt.
• Bake for 12–15 minutes, until deep golden brown. Cool slightly before serving.