Instructions

1. 1
   Dissolve the yeast in the water.
2. 2
   Mix in the salt, sugar, and flour.
3. 3
   Knead the dough until it is smooth.
4. 4
   Roll out (do not cut) a blob of dough until it is a rope about 18 inches long.
5. 5
   If a traditional shape is desired: Make a loop with the middle of the dough, crossing the dough over itself at about the 15% and 85% areas. Give this contact point a 180° twist, then flip it (and the ends) over toward the middle of the dough piece so that the ends overlap the more-central part at about the 45% and 55% areas.
6. 6
   Brush the pretzel with egg.
7. 7
   Sprinkle coarse salt onto the egg.
8. 8
   Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes.