French Bread

This is great for a sub sandwich or with any soup.   It's one of my favorites.

FRENCH BREAD

(makes two loafs)

Ingredients: 

*1 1/2 tablespoons active dry yeast

*2 cups very warm water 

*1 1/2 teaspoon salt

*4 1/2-5 cups all-purpose flour

*1 large egg, beaten

Directions: 

~In a large mixing bowl, add yeast, salt flourIn the bowl of a stand mixer, add yeast, water, salt, and 3 cups of flour. 

~Using a dough hook (or knead my hand), knead dough until flour is mixed in.

~Add remaining flour a 1/3 at a time, and knead until the dough pulls away from the side of the bowl.

~Grease a large bowl.

~Add dough into greased bowl, and cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap.

~Allow to rise until double in size, about 1 hour.

~Divide dough in half.

~Roll each half into a large rectangle.

~Roll up tightly from the long end of dough.

~Place on a baking sheet and cover allow to rise for 40-45 minutes.

~Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

~Cut several diagonal cuts on top of each loaf of bread (about 1/4 inch deep).

~In a small bowl, beat one egg.

~Brush beaten egg over top of dough.

~Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.

~Remove from oven and allow to cool on a cooling rack.