In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water and 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast. Add ¼ cup of granulated sugar and stir gently. Allow the mixture to sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Once the yeast mixture is ready, add 1 teaspoon of salt and 3 cups of all-purpose flour to the bowl. Mix until a dough begins to form. Then, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 24 inches long, and then twist it into a pretzel shape. Place the shaped pretzels on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
In a large pot, bring 2 cups of hot water to a boil. Gradually stir in ½ cup of baking soda.
Carefully add each pretzel to the baking soda bath, allowing them to boil for about 30 seconds on each side. Remove them with a slotted spoon and return them to the baking sheet.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Once the pretzels are on the baking sheet, sprinkle them generously with coarse salt. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
Remove the pretzels from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Pair them with a warm cheese dip for the ultimate treat!
