German Pretzels

2 1/4 tsp yeast or one packet
2 Tbsp. brown sugar
1 1/8 tsp. salt
1 ½ cups of warm water
4 cups all purpose flour
1 Tbsp. butter
2 Tbsp. baking soda
4 cups of water

In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast, brown sugar and salt in 1 1/2 cups warm water. Stir in flour, and butter and knead dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes. Cover, and let rise for one hour.

After dough has risen, cut into 6+ pieces. Roll dough to be 1 ½ feet to 2 feel long, it should be thinner on ends and thick in the middle. Twist into a pretzel shape, and let rise for 10-15 minutes.

Combine 4 cups warm water and baking soda in large pot and bring to a boil. Turn down heat to a strong simmer. Place formed pretzels in simmering solution for 30 seconds, turning over if necessary. For a chewier pretzel boil for 45 seconds. Remove pretzel from water and place on bake sheets. Let pretzels sit for 30 minutes.

Bake at 435° for 14 to 18 minutes, or until brown. Spray with water and sprinkle with coarse salt.