Combine pretzel mix and yeast in a large mixing bowl. Stir in very warm water and oil until thoroughly combined. (You may need to use your hands. If dough seems a little dry, wet your hands and continue to mix.)

Cover dough and let rise 25 minutes in a warm, draft-free place. (Dough will not double in size.)

Preheat oven to 400°. Cut dough into three equal sections and roll into 18-inch ropes. Cut dough into chunks and place on a cookie sheet covered with a silicone mat or cooking spray.

Combine 6 cups water with baking soda in a large deep saucepan until water boils. Use a slotted spoon or spatula to dip three pretzel bites in at a time into the boiling water allowing pretzel to slide off spoon into the water. Boil for 10 to 15 seconds, then remove the pretzel and place on baking sheet.

Sprinkle each pretzel bit with pretzel salt. Bake 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack. Serve warm with your favorite cheese sauce.