Brezen

Ingredients

• Coarse salt (2 tablespoons)
• Water (3 cups)
• Baking soda (1/3 cup)
• Salt (1 teaspoon)
• All (purpose flour - 3 cups)
• Sugar (1 tablespoon)
• Active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
• Warm water (1 cup)

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture.
3. Mix until a dough forms, then knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. In a large pot, bring water and baking soda to a boil.
7. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 20 inches in length.
8. Shape each rope into a pretzel by forming a U-shape, then crossing the ends over each other and pressing them onto the bottom of the U.
9. Carefully place each pretzel into the boiling water for 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
10. Sprinkle the pretzels with coarse salt and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
11. Allow the pretzels to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!