In a large bowl, combine 1 ⅓ cups of warm water, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. Gradually stir in 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt, mixing until a soft dough starts to form.

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl.

Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let the dough rise in a warm area for approximately 1 hour until doubled in size.

Preheat your oven to 450°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope and shape into pretzels.

In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil and add ⅔ cup of baking soda. Carefully lower the pretzels into the boiling water, cooking each for about 30 seconds.

Remove the pretzels and place them onto the lined baking sheets. Sprinkle with coarse salt and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.