fabulous french loaves

Ingredients

• Servings: 2
• 2 (.25 ounce) packages active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup warm water (110 degrees f)
• 2 cups water
• 6 cups bread flour
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon white sugar
• 5 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons cornmeal
• 1 egg white, beaten
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Recipe

Preparation Time: 30 mins Cook Time: 35 mins Ready Time: 2 hrs 45 mins


• in a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. let stand until creamy, about 10 minutes.
• in a large bowl, combine the yeast mixture with 2 cups water, 3 cups flour, salt, sugar and vegetable oil; stir well to combine. stir in the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, beating well after each addition. when the dough has pulled together, turn it out a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes. lightly oil a large bowl, place the dough in the bowl and turn to coat with oil. cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place until doubled in volume, about 1 hour.
• divide dough half. roll each half into a 9 x 12 rectangle and roll up jelly roll style, starting at long edge. seal edges and place seam side down on a large baking sheet that has been sprinkled with cornmeal.
• use a sharp knife to slash each loaf diagonally 3 times. brush with beaten egg white and sprinkle with sesame seeds. cover and allow to rise 30 minutes. meanwhile, preheat oven to 400 degrees f (200 degrees c).
• bake in preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until golden brown.