Pretzels

By Margaretmary

Ingredients

• 1 pkg dry yeast
• 1 cup warn water
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• 2 tsp salt
• 31/2-4 cups flour
• butter as needed
• 4 cups water
• 11/3 Tbs baking soda
• 2 tsp cream of tartar
• Egg wash (1egg beaten with 1 Tbs water)

Preparation

Step 1

Dissolve the yeast in 1/2 cup warm water. Add sugar. Mix well Set aside to foam.Pour the yeast mixture into a mixing bowl. Add the remaining water and salt.
Gradually beat in enough flour to make a stiff dough. If too much flour is added and dough is crumbly knead in a little more water
Turn dough out onto floured board and knead for about 10 mins until smooth and elastic.
Butter medium sized mixing bowl. Place dough in bowl and roll in butter. Cover bowl lightly with towl. Place in warm place to rise for 45 mins.
Preheat oven to 475 Butter cookie sheet
Divide dough into 6 equal parts. Divide each in half to make 12 pretzels.
Roll each piece on lightly floured surface to 12 inch ropes about 1/2 inch wide. Twist into shape of a pretzel.
Place 4 cups of water the baking soda and cream of tartar in 1 1/2 quart saucepan. Bring to a boil.
Drop 2 or 3 pretzels into water . They will sink to the bottom. When they rise to the top remove with a slotted spoon. place on buttered cookie sheet.
When all the pretzels are boiled brush each with egg wash and sprinkle with kosher salt. Bake for 12 mins. Let cool on rack.