Mix flour, yeast, water, and salt ingredients. Knead into dough. Let double in size. Proof under a towel or in a plastic container with a lid.
In a pot, boil water and baking soda. Let rest.
Shape pretzel dough into long dough logs. Have fun. Then easy twist them into a simple ribbon (like a Breast Cancer Awareness ribbon). Fold down. And you will see the knotted pretzel shape.
Dip them in the water-baking soda.
Brush egg wash over pretzels. Add coarse salt of choice.
Bake in 350°F oven until golden brown or about 50 minutes.