Mix 1/8 cup hot water with the yeast. Stir in the warm water and brown sugar.
Mix in the five cups of flour until dough is smooth and does not stick to the bowl.
Knead until stretchy and smooth. Break off pieces and roll out into rope, then fold to create pretzel shape
Boil pretzels in the pan with water/baking soda mixture at a gentle boil for 30 seconds. Remove and place on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper
Sprinkle with salt and bake for 8 minutes at 475°