how to make crusty french bread

Ingredients ( Crusty French Bread ) :

2 cups warm water

1 tablespoon yeast

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 tablespoon sugar

2 teaspoons salt

5 -5¹⁄2 cups bread flour

Directions

1. Dissolve yeast in warm water (110 degrees) and sugar in large bowl; allow yeast to proof or foam (about 10 minutes).
2. Add salt, oil, and 3 cups flour; beat for 2
3. Stir in 2 cups flour to make a stiff
4. Knead until smooth and elastic, about 10
5. Place in oiled bowl, turn dough to coat all sides, cover and let rise until
6. Punch down and divide in
7. Shape dough into two long slender loaves. 8. Grease and sprinkle with cornmeal either a french bread pan or large cookie sheet.
8. Place loaves in pan and cut diagonal gashes on top of each loaf (I use scissors).
9. Cover and let rise until doubled.
10. Bake at 375 degrees for about 30 minutes. 12. Note: You can sprinkle or spray water on the

loaves during baking if you want a really crunchy crust.