Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture is frothy.
- Add 5 1/2 cups of flour and salt to the yeast mixture and stir until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour as needed.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large pot, bring 4 cups of warm water and baking soda to a boil.
- Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and roll each piece into a long rope.
- Shape the dough into pretzel shapes, boiling each one for 30 seconds in the baking soda solution before placing it on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and 1 tbsp of water. Brush the egg wash over the pretzels and sprinkle with coarse salt.
- Bake the pretzels for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
- Serve warm with mustard or cheese sauce, if desired. Enjoy!
