Combine flour and salt in a large bowl. Mix in 1 ½ cups water and starter to make a stiff dough. Cover with plastic and set in a draft free place for 12-18 hours.
Spread a small amount of flour on a clean counter and dump out dough. Press into a large rectangle, fold over on itself and repeat a few times. Divide dough into 12 balls and roll out into long ropes about 1 inch thick. Let rest for 15-30 minutes
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Bring 6 cups water and baking soda to a boil in a large sauce pan.
Add pretzels gently to the boiling water 2-3 at a time. Flip after 15 seconds and boil another 15 seconds. If you like them with extra pretzel taste, boil 30-45 seconds a side. Remove pretzels with a slotted spoon and place on a baking sheet so they are not touching.
Combine egg white with 1 tablespoon water and brush on pretzels. Sprinkle with desired topping.
Bake for 5-8 minutes depending on desired level of brownness.
Notes
I made half of these to eat later. I added the egg white wash but no toppings when I initially baked them. I cooked until the barely turned tan. When we reheat in the toaster oven I spray the frozen bites with cooking spray, add the topping and bake until warm throughout, about 5 minutes.