1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough discard, granulated sugar, salt, and olive oil. Mix well with a spoon or spatula until everything is thoroughly incorporated.

2. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. It should spring back slightly when poked.

3. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 1/2 inch thick. Then, cut each rope into 1-inch pieces to create your pretzel bites.

4. Preheat your oven to 400 F (200 C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. In a wide, shallow pot or deep skillet, bring 4 cups of water and 1/2 cup of baking soda to a rolling boil.

5. Carefully drop a few pretzel bites at a time into the boiling baking soda solution. Let them boil for 20-30 seconds, flipping once halfway through. Using a slotted spoon, remove them and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.

6. Sprinkle the boiled pretzel bites generously with coarse sea salt. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up.

7. Once out of the oven, immediately brush the warm pretzel bites with melted butter. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces.