Combine all the ingredients for the pretzel dough in large bowl
Mix until well combined
Either knead by hand until elastic, about 8 minutes, or with an electric mixer for about 5 minutes
Cover and leave to rise for about 40 minutes
Knead for 1 minute

Preheat the oven to 210 oC
Divide the dough into 12 pieces
Roll out into a rope about 20cm long
Twist each rope into a pretzel shape
Leave to rise for 10 minutes

Bring a large pan of water to the boil and add the 2 teaspoons of baking soda
Place the pretzels in the boiling water, one at a time, for 30 seconds
Remove the pretzel from the water with a slotted spoon
Place them on a baking sheet

Brush the pretzels with the beaten egg
Sprinkle with the salt and poppy seeds
Bake for 12-15 minutes in the centre of the oven
Transfer to a wire rack to cool