In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Set aside for a few minutes until it starts to get foamy.

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar and salt. Add in the yeast water and vegetable oil.

Mix into a dough.

Knead the dough for 5 minutes until it is nice and smooth.

Lightly oil a bowl and place dough inside. Cover and let rise in a warm space for 45 minutes or until it doubles in size.

Preheat your oven to 425.

You will want an area that will allow you to spread out a bit. You will need to create a water bath by mixing warm water and the baking soda. Stir until the baking soda mostly dissolves.

Place a few paper towels on a plate and set next to your water bath. You will also need a lightly greased baking sheet.

Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.

Roll each portion into a 3 foot long rope. (Remember making snakes with Play-Doh when you were younger? It’s time to put those skills to action again!)

Pick up both ends of the dough and give it a little spin so the middle of the dough spins around.

Then flip the twisted ends down toward you to create the traditional pretzel look. Pinch the ends in place.

Dip the pretzel in the water bath and let drip on the paper towel for any excess water to drain off.

Then place on your baking sheet.

Cook for 4 minutes. Then turn the baking sheet and cook for 5 more minutes.

Melt the butter. Brush over the pretzels and sprinkle with salt.