Pretzels

INGREDIENTS:

1 (.25 ounce) package active dry yeast 2 tablespoons brown sugar 1 1/8 teaspoons salt 1 1/2 cups warm water (110 degrees F /45 degrees C) 3 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup bread flour 2 cups warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C) 2 tablespoons baking soda 2 tablespoons butter, melted 2 tablespoons coarse kosher salt

DIRECTIONS:

1.	In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast, brown sugar and salt in 1 1/2 cups warm water. Stir in flour, and knead dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, and turn to coat the surface. Cover, and let rise for one hour.
2.	Combine 2 cups warm water and baking soda in an 8 inch square pan. Line 6 baking sheets with parchment paper.
3.	After dough has risen, cut into 12 pieces. Roll each piece into a 3 foot rope, pencil thin or thinner. Twist into a pretzel shape, and dip into the baking soda solution. Place onto parchment covered baking sheets, and let rise 15 to 20 minutes.
4.	Preheat an oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C).
5.	Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until golden brown. Brush with melted butter, and sprinkle with coarse salt, garlic salt or cinnamon sugar.