• 2 package of active dry yeast
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 2 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (100-115 degrees)
• 3 to 3 1/2 cups all purpose flour
• 1 egg white beaten with 1T water
• course salt, sesame seeds, poppy seeds

In a large mixing bowl combine yeast and sugar. Let proof about 5 minutes. Add oil and 1/4 cup water. Mix.

Add salt. Add 1/2 cup of flour and continue mixing.  Slowly add remaining flour.

Knead for several minutes until the dough springs back and is satiny and smooth. It is a fairly wet dough.

Form into a loaf about 20 to 22 inches long, let loaf rest about 20 minutes.

Brush lightly with egg wash and sprinkle with salt or seeds.

Bake in a preheated 300°F oven about 55 minutes.