Mix the yeast with the milk and sugar, let if "proof" (get foamy) for 10 minutes.
Place 3½ cups flour and the salt in a food processor.
With the motor running, pour the yeast milk mixture in.
Pulse intermittently until the dough forms a ball and it cleans the sides of the bowl. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, pulsing intermittently.
Turn the dough into an oiled bowl, cover, put in a warm place. Let the dough rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.Pulse intermittently Punch the dough down and divide into 20 pieces. Form each piece into a pretzel shape and place on a flored surface.
Let rise ½ hour until double in size.
Preheat the oven to 400° F.

In a l;arge skillet, bring the water and baking soda to a simmer.
Place 2 or 3 pretzels at a time in the water and simmer 30 seconds each side. Remove and drain on a rack.
Place a second cookie sheet overed in parchment paper. Keeping the original top sides up, brush each pretzel with the egg wash and then sprinkle with the coarse salt.
Bake for 18-20 minute.
Serve with a dipping mustard or some melted gooey cheese!