French Bread

2 Tbsp yeast
1 C warm water
1/4 C sugar
1 Tbsp salt
1/3 C oil
1 1/2 C hot water
6-7 C flour

Dissolve yeast in 1 C warm water & 1/4 C sugar in mixing bowl. Let stand for 15 min. Add salt, il, 1 1/2 C hot water, & 3 C flour. Mix with a mixer. Add remaining flour & mix for 5 min. The dough will be soft. Put on floured surface, make a ball & cut in half. (I cut into fourths). Roll out dough as for a jelly roll & then roll it up. Put on greased cookie sheet, seam side down. Slash loaves diagonally a few times. Brush with beaten egg whites, sesame seed, or poppy seed. Cover & let rise until double (20-30 min.) Bake 375 degrees for 20-25 minutes.
Makes 2 loaves (or 4 small loaves)