Pretzels

Ingredients

• 1 (1/4 ounce) package active dry yeast
• 4 cups unbleached flour
• 1 1/2 cups water (110-120 degrees)
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 dash coarse salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar

Directions

1. 1

   Dissolve yeast in warm water.

2. 2

   Add salt and sugar to yeast mixture.

3. 3

   Blend in flour and knead dough until smooth, about 7 to 8 minutes.

4. 4

   Cover and let dough rise until double in bulk.

5. 5

   Punch down.

6. 6

   Cut dough into small pieces and roll into ropes.

7. 7

   Twist ropes into pretzel shapes and place on greased cookie sheet.

8. 8

   Using a pastry brush, brush pretzels with egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.

9. 9

   Allow pretzels to rise until almost double in bulk.

10. 10

    Bake at 425°F.

11. 11

    For 10 to 15 minutes or until browned.

12. 12

    Best if eaten immediately.

13. 13

    If not, store in airtight container.