French Bread

This bread takes 1.5 hours from start to finish and makes 2 delicious loaves!!

2 1/4 cups very warm water
1.5 Tbsp each:
                  Yeast
                  Sugar
                  Oil
Mix and let stand until foamy
Then add 2 tsp salt
(I like to add 2 Tbsp minced garlic also)

Add 5 cups flour (1 cup at a time) to form a soft dough.  Mix until dough forms a ball and is somewhat sticky.  Place bowl over a smaller bowl of very hot water. Cover and let rest for 10 minutes.

Turn out on lightly floured surface and divide into 2 portions. Do not over-knead.
Roll each portion into a rectangle about 10-12 inches long. Roll up tightly and pinch seam. Place on a greased (or use parchment paper) cookie sheet (not touching each other) and slash the top about 1/4" deep. Paint with egg wash (1 egg + 1 Tbsp water). Let rise for 30 minutes. I like to place mine over a warm heating pad so the rise more. Bake at 400 for 25 minutes.