SOFT PRETZELS

Ingredients:

• 1/8 cup hot water
• 1 package dry yeast
• 1½ cups warm water
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 5 cups (or more) flour
• Coarse salt
• Baking soda

Instructions:

1. Dissolve yeast in hot water. Add warm water and brown sugar, stirring until dissolved.
2. Slowly add 3 cups of flour, stirring until the dough is smooth and does not stick to the sides of the bowl. Knead dough until stretchy and smooth.
3. Grease two cookie sheets and sprinkle with salt. Roll dough into long ropes and shape into pretzels.
4. In a frying pan, combine water with 1 tbsp. baking soda for each cup of water. Bring to a gentle boil and dip each pretzel for 30 seconds. Place on cookie sheets and sprinkle with salt.
5. Bake at 475°F for 8 minutes or until golden brown.