Soft Pretzels 
Makes 1-2 dozen pretzels

1 1/3 cups warm water (110 degrees F)
2 tablespoons butter or margarine
1 1/2 tablespoons white sugar
3/4 teaspoon salt
4 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
4 cups water
1 1/2 tablespoons baking soda
coarse salt
                   
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in the warm
   water. Proof for 5 mins. 
2. Mix in butter, flour, and salt. Cut dough into short strips,
   roll into ropes, and shape into pretzels. Cover, and let rise
   on a greased baking sheet for about 45 mins. 
3. In a cast iron or other non-aluminum pan, bring water and baking
   soda almost to a boil. Gently lower pretzels into water for about
   1 min, turning once. Do not let water come to a full boil. Remove
   pretzels, and return to greased baking sheet. Sprinkle with coarse
   salt. 
4. Bake at 475 degrees F for about 12 mins.