In a bowl of stand mixer (or hand held mixer) combine yeast, warm water and brown sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
In a small bowl combine melted butter and milk. Add mixture to yeast mixture.
Using dough hook attachment, mix on low speed until combined. If you don’t have a dough hook attachment, whatever you are using to mix will work. I’d recommend a wooden spoon.
Add salt and flour. Mix until flour is completely incorporated.
Knead dough with dough hook attachment for about 5 minutes, or by hand. Dough should be slightly tacky, but not too sticky. If its too sticky where its sticking to your hands, add a tbsp more of flour until its not sticky.
Cover bowl with dough in it with a damp towel. Let sit for about 1 hour until dough doubles in size.
When dough has risen, preheat oven to 400°, and bring 4 quarts of water to a boil.
Take your dough and gently press it down to release any air bubbles. Divide and roll into two even balls.
When water starts to boil, carefully add baking soda, a little at a time. If you add all of the baking soda at once, your water will fizz and go everywhere!
Once all of your baking soda is in water, add one ball of dough to water and boil for 90 seconds on each side.
Scoop dough out with slotted spoon to drain excess water off and place on a greased or lined baking sheet. Repeat with other dough ball.
Sprinkle sea salt over dough. Bake in preheated oven for 22-25 minutes. Rotate baking sheet once throughout baking time.
When bread is done, remove from oven, and transfer to a wire rack to cool. Enjoy!
