Pretzels - cooking recipe

Ingredients

2 1/4 teaspoons yeast
1 1/4 cups warm water
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
2 cups bread flour
1 cup water
1 tablespoon baking soda
coarse salt (optional)
2 tablespoons butter, melted (optional)

Preparation

In a small bowl, combine yeast and warm water.
Let stand for 5 minutes while you prepare the next step.
In a large bowl, place the brown sugar, 1 cup flour and the yeast mixture (when it is ready).
Mix well.
Then, stir in enough of the all-purpose flour to make a soft dough.
Turn dough onto a well-floured surface and knead for about 3 minutes.
Cover and let rest 20 minutes.
Cut dough into 12 pieces.
Roll each into a 12-15-inch long rope and shape into pretzels.
In a shallow bowl, add 1 tablespoon baking soda to 1 cup water.
Dip each finished pretzel shape quickly into water, shaking off excess.
Place immediately on greased baking sheet. Sprinkle with salt (if desired).
Bake at 475 degrees for 6 minutes or until golden brown.
Remove from pan quickly and serve with melted butter brushed on top, or with your favorite dip.