1 cup + 2 tablespoons warm water (110-115°F)
3 cups flour
3 tablespoons brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
2 quarts water
1/2 cup baking soda

Dissolve yeast in warm water till bubbly. Add brown sugar and flour, 1 cup at a time, adding more flour or water by tablespoonfuls to make a dough that forms a ball and leaves sides of bowl. Turn out onto lightly floured surface and knead 10 minutes. Place in greased bowl, turning to coat top. Cover and let rise in warm place 45 minutes till doubled. Punch dough down and turn out onto lightly floured surface. Cover and let rest 5 minutes. Heat oven to 425°F. Grease baking sheet. Cut dough into 8 pieces. Roll pieces into balls, then roll each into a 20 inch long rope. Form into pretzel shape. In saucepan, bring water and baking soda to boil. Drop pretzels into boiling water 2 at a time. Boil 10-15 seconds. Remove with slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Place pretzels on prepared baking sheets. Bake 8-10 minutes till golden brown. Spritz or lightly brush with water. Sprinkle with salt.