French Bread

By á-708

Ingredients

• 1 Tbs (15 ml) sugar
• 1 package (1/4 oz, 7 g) yeast
• 2 cups (500 ml) lukewarm water
• 6 cups (1.5 L) all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp (10 ml) salt
• 2 Tbs (30 ml) melted butter

Details

Servings 3

Preparation

Step 1

Dissolve the sugar and yeast in the water in a small bowl and allow to proof for 15 minutes. Sift the flour and salt into a large mixing bowl and form a well in the center. Stir in the water mixture and beat in an electric mixer with dough hooks or knead on a lightly floured surface until the dough is smooth, about 15 minutes. Transfer to a lightly greased bowl and allow to rise in a warm place until doubled in volume, about 90 minutes. Form into 3 loaves about 16 inches (40 cm) long and place on a lightly greased baking sheet. Brush with melted butter and cut 5 or 6 diagonal slashes in the top of the loaves with a sharp knife. Cover with a dish towel and allow to rise until doubled in volume, about 90 minutes. Bake in a preheated 400F (200C) oven for 15 minutes. Reduce the heat to 350F (180C) and bake an additional 30 minutes, until golden brown. Cool on wire racks. Makes 3 loaves.