Steps
- Mix 2½ cups of bread flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 2¼ teaspoons of instant yeast, and ¾ cup plus 2 tablespoons of warm water. Knead for 5-8 minutes into a smooth dough.
- Let rise in a lightly greased bowl for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 475°F / 245°C, dissolve 2 tablespoons of baking soda in 1 cup of boiling water, and let it cool to lukewarm.
- Divide the dough into 70g pieces and let rest uncovered for 5 minutes, then roll each into a 28in / 71cm rope and twist into a pretzel.
- Pour the soda solution into a 9in / 23cm square pan. Soak the pretzels, four at a time, for 2 minutes, then transfer to a lightly greased baking sheet.
- Let rest for 10 minutes, then bake for 8-9 minutes, until golden brown. Brush with 3 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter.