French Bread
6 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/2 (.25 ounce) packages active dry yeast
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
2 cups warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C)
1 tablespoon cornmeal
1 egg white
1 tablespoon water
In a large bowl, combine 2 cups flour, yeast and salt. Stir in 2 cups warm
water, and beat until well blended using a stand mixer with a dough hook
attachment. Using a wooden spoon, stir in as much of the remaining flour as you
can.
On a lightly floured surface, knead in enough flour to make a
stiff dough that is smooth and elastic. Knead for about 8 to 10 minutes total.
Shape into a ball. Place dough in a greased bowl, and turn once. Cover, and let
rise in a warm place until doubled.
Punch dough down, and divide in half. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface.
Cover, and let rest for 10 minutes. Roll each half into large rectangle. Roll
up, starting from a long side. Moisten edge with water and seal. Taper ends.
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.
With a very sharp knife, make 3 or 4 diagonal cuts about 1/4
inch deep across top of each loaf. Bake in a preheated 375 degrees F (190
degrees C) oven for 20 minutes. Brush again with egg white mixture. Bake for an
additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until bread tests done. If necessary, cover
loosely with foil to prevent over browning. Remove from baking sheet, and cool
on a wire rack.
