Chewy French Bread

1 Tablespoon yeast
1 Tablespoon white sugar
2 teaspoons salt
2 cups warm water (not hot, not cold!)
5 cups all-purpose flour or until right consistency

In large standing mixer, combine the yeast, sugar, salt, and warm water. Be careful to use warm water, not hot.

Mix and let sit for about 15 minutes to get the yeast working.

Gradually add flour until you get just the right consistency. You want the dough to be soft but not too sticky.

Grease a large bowl with canola oil and add the dough.

Punch the dough down into a nice smooth ball.

Cover with a clean dishtowel and set it in a warm corner of your kitchen.

Let the dough rise until doubled in size. Punch down and smooth it out, and let it rise again.

Form into two large oblong shapes (or you can make several smaller loafs or even buns).

Place on a large greased cookie sheet or on a french bread pan.

Cover with a towel and let rise again, about 30-40 minutes.

Cut slits on top of loaves with scissors or serrated knife.

Mix one egg white and 1/2 teaspoon salt and brush this mixture on top of the loafs.

Bake on 400 degrees for 25 minutes or until bottom is slightly brown and crunchy, and top is nice and golden brown.

Remove and let cool on baking rack.

Adapted from a recipe by SueBeeHomemaker.com.

Notes from the original author:

• Freezes well in a freezer bag up to three months.
• Makes a terrific Beef Au Jus Sandwich or Pull Pork Sandwich.