Crusty French Bread

This is perfect French bread. It has a nice crusty exterior and soft, tender insides. It’s easy and fun to make. I like it so much better than store bought.

Make: 2 loaves

Ingredients:
2 cups warm water
1 tablespoon active dry yeast
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoons salt
5 cups bread flour

Directions:
1. Dissolve yeast in warm water (110 degrees F) and sugar in measuring cup; allow yeast to proof or foam (about 10 minutes).

2. Place 3 cups flour, salt, and oil in the bread machine in order recommended by the manufacturer. Add yeast mixture and then select dough cycle, press start for about 2 minutes.

3. Add 2 cups of flour; knead until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.

4. Place in a greased bowl, turn dough to coat all sides, cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled.

5. Punch down and divide in half. Put the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll each half into large rectangle. Roll up, starting from a long side. Moisten edge with water and seal. Taper ends.

6. Grease a large baking sheet. Sprinkle with cornmeal. Place loaves, seam side down, on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly beat the egg white with 1 tablespoon of water, and brush on. Cover with a damp cloth. Let rise until nearly doubled, 35 to 40 minutes.

7. With a very sharp knife, make 3 or 4 diagonal cuts about 1/4 inch deep across top of each loaf.

8. Preheat oven at 375 degrees F and put empty baking dish on the bottom of oven. When oven is ready; spray water inside the oven. Place the loaves bread into the oven and then pour water into the empty baking dish to cause steam, close immediately. (This is a secret to making good French bread) Bake about 20 to 25 minutes, or until bread tests done (190 F).

9. Remove from baking sheet, and cool on a wire rack. Enjoy!


Original recipe is from www.recipezaar.com

How to make French Bread video at http://video.about.com/frenchfood/Crusty-French-Bread-Recipe.htm