Pretzels

1 pk Yeast
1 1/2 c Warm water
4 1/2 To 5 cups flour
2 ts Salt
1 tb Sugar

Combine yeast and 1/2 c warm water in measuring cup, stirring with fork until dissolved.

Combine 2 c flour, salt, and sugar in bowl. Add dissolved yeast and remaining 1 c warm water. Beat vigorously with whisk or spoon for 2 minutes. Gradually add enough of remaining flour, 1/4 c at a time, to make a soft dough. Turn out of bowl. Knead until smooth and elastic, adding as little flour as necessary, about 8-10 minutes.

Place dough in bowl, cover with plastic wrap, put in warm place to rise until doubled in size. Punch down dough and divide into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into an 18-20 inch long rope, slightly tapered and thinner at ends.

Form into pretzel shapes. Place on 5-inch squares of baking parchment. Cover with a towel and let rest 20-30 minutes.

Bring to a boil 6 cups of water, 1/3 cup baking soda, and 1/3 cup salt in a large shallow pan. Gently drop 3 or 4 pretzels into the simmering water, parchment side up. Remove parchment. Poach first side 2 minutes. Turn and poach other side 2 minutes. Remove pretzels with slotted spatula and place on towel to cool.

Brush with an egg white wash (1 egg white mixed with 1 Tbsp water). Sprinkle with coarse salt (available in health food stores) Bake on greased and foil lined baking sheets at 375 degrees for 30 minutes. Remove from baking sheet and cool on wire racks.

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