Preheat oven to 425° F.

In a small bowl, add warm water and yeast and allow yeast to activate (about 3-5 minutes). Add salt and sugar and stir to combine.

In a large bowl, add flour and then pour yeast mixture over top. Knead for about 5 minutes.

Separate dough into 6 sections. Create pretzel bites by rolling the dough into a 15 inch rope (about 1 inch thickness). Cut the rope into 2 inch pieces. If you have excess or leftover dough, create a small rounded ball (optional: cut an x into the top of the ball).

In a medium pan, add water and baking soda. Cook over high heat. Once water is boiling, place 6-8 pieces of pretzel dough into the water. Remove with slotted spoon after about 30 seconds and place the pretzel bites onto a baking sheet lined with parchment.

Brush dough lightly with egg wash and sprinkle salt on top.

Bake for 5 minutes, and then flip. Using a basting brush, coat the tops of the pretzel bites with the remaining egg wash. Repeat again after 5 more minutes. Cook 3-5 minutes more (a total of 13-15 minutes) or until golden brown.