Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In the bowl of a stand mixer, add the warm water, brown sugar and yeast and stir. Alternatively, use a large bowl and wooden spoon.
Add 3 cups of flour and salt to the bowl. With the paddle attachment (or simply a spoon if you don't have stand mixer), mix on low until the dough starts to come together. Add more flour as needed until you have a slightly sticky dough. It shouldn't stick to your hands though. I needed 3 1/4 cups flour.
Place the dough on a clean flat surface and form the dough into a ball. Separate the dough into four sections and roll each section into a long log.
Cut into 1 inch pieces using a knife. I got 11-12 bites per section.
Bring 12 cups of water in a large pot to a boil, then slowly add the baking soda to the water. Be careful as the water will boil up as you add the baking soda. Add it slowly and lower the heat if needed.
Place the pretzel dough bites into the water about 12 at a time and cook for 30 seconds. They will rise to the surface when they are ready. Use a slotted spoon to remove the dough pieces and let cool. Set the pieces on parchment paper or a silicon mat nearby. Continue until you have boiled all the pretzel bites.
Arrange pretzels on the baking sheet. Brush with melted vegan butter and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
Bake for about 12-15 minutes until the tops are browned. Remove from oven.
Serve and enjoy!