Fabulous French Bread

(Amie) 2 1/2 cups very warm water
2 Tbsp sugar
1 Tbsp salt
2 Tbsp oil
6 cups flour, stirred and measured
2 Tbsp yeast

In large bowl, pour water, sugar, salt, oil, half of the flour, and yeast. Beat vigorously 2-3 minutes. Stir in remaining flour until completely mixed in, leaving spoon in heavy batter.

Let dough rest 10 minutes, then stir down. Repeat this step until dough has been stirred down five times.

Turn onto floured board. Knead only enough to coat so it can be handled. Divide in half and roll each into 9 x 12 inches. Roll up from long side. Pinch edge to seal. Arrange lengthwise on a cookie sheet. Cover lightly and let rise at room temperature for 30 minutes.

Cut 3 gashes at an angle on top then brush with slightly beaten egg. Bake immediately at 400 degrees 25-30 minutes until brown. Cool on racks.