Authentic German Bretzels

Ingredients

• Warm water (1 1/2 cups)
• Granulated sugar (1 tablespoon)
• Active dry yeast (2 teaspoons)
• All-purpose flour (4 1/2 cups)
• Salt (2 teaspoons)
• Baking soda (2/3 cup)
• Coarse salt (as needed for sprinkling)

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar. Let it sit for approximately 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
2. In a separate large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the yeast mixture.
3. Combine the mixture until a dough starts to form. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until the dough doubles in size.
5. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
6. In a large pot, boil 10 cups of water. Once boiling, add the baking soda and stir until it has completely dissolved.
7. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope and shape it into the classic pretzel shape.
8. Carefully dip each pretzel into the boiling water and baking soda mixture for about 30 seconds. Then, transfer them to the prepared baking sheet.
9. Generously sprinkle each pretzel with coarse salt, then bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.
10. Remove the pretzels from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these traditional pretzels warm with a side of mustard or beer cheese dip.