Italian Sesame Bread
3 3/4 c (447 g) flour
2 tsp yeast
1 1/2 tsp (9 g) salt
2 T (25 g) olive oil
1 1/4 c (283 g) water
Topping:
1 egg white, beaten
sesame seeds
Mix and knead all of the dough ingredients until you've made a smooth, elastic
dough.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turn to coat, cover, and allow it to rise for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, until puffy.
Gently deflate the dough, and divide it into three equal
pieces. Roll each piece into a
20"-long rope, tapering the ends slightly.
Place the ropes on a lightly greased or parchment lined
baking sheet. Braid them loosely; pinch the ends together, and tuck them
under. Cover and let it rise for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until puffy.
While the bread is rising, preheat the oven to 400°F.
Immediately before you put the loaf in the oven, brush with the egg white and sprinkle the sesame seeds on top.
Bake the braid for 20 to 25 minutes, until it's golden brown.
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