Street Pretzel

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough
   In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Add the warm water and melted butter, and mix until a dough forms. Turn out onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
2. Shape the pretzels
   Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 24-inch rope. Form each rope into a pretzel shape by making a U-shape, then crossing the ends over each other twice, and pressing the ends onto the bottom of the U. Place shaped pretzels on parchment-lined baking sheets and let rest for 15 minutes.
3. Prepare the baking soda bath
   Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a gentle boil. Using a slotted spatula, carefully place pretzels one at a time into the boiling water for 30 seconds. Remove and return to the baking sheet.
4. Finish and bake
   Brush each pretzel with the egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until deep golden brown. Remove from the oven and immediately brush with melted butter for a shiny, soft crust.
5. Cool and serve
   Allow pretzels to cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes before serving. They're best enjoyed warm with mustard, cheese sauce, or on their own.