Homemade Soft Pretzels

In a large bowl, dissolve 1 1/2 teaspoons of sugar and 2 teaspoons of kosher salt in 1 1/2 cups of warm water. Sprinkle 1 package of active dry yeast over the water and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.

Add 4 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour to the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and 2/3 cup of baking soda to a rolling boil.

Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 24-inch rope. Shape each rope into a pretzel and place on the prepared baking sheets.

Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and return to the baking sheets.

Brush the pretzels with 1 large egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water. Sprinkle with pretzel salt.

Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.