French Loaf

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French Loaf

This is the best loaf of bread I have ever made. It looked and tasted like I bought it from a bakery (which is my general meter-stick of success). I made this while I was simmering my Hearty Chilli. It was a match made in heaven! 

• 3 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup warm water (110 degrees F)
• 2 cups water
• 6 cups AP flour
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon white sugar
• 5 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons cornmeal
• 1 egg white, beaten
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Directions:

1. In a small bowl dissolve yeast in warm water. Allow to proof for 10 minutes.
2. In a large bowl combine the yeast mixture with two cups water, 3 cups flour, salt, sugar, and vegetable oil; stir well to combine. Stir in remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Once the dough has pulled together, turn out on a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic (about 8 minutes). Lightly oil a large bowl and place dough inside, turning once to coat. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
3. Divide dough in half with a knife or pastry cutter. Roll each half into 9x12 rectangle and roll up jelly roll style, starting on the long side. Seal the edges and turn seam side down. Place loaves on baking sheet sprinkled with cornmeal. 
4. Using a sharp knife, make three slashes diagonally. Brush with beaten egg white and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Cover and allow to rise for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
5. Bake in preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Drink immediately.