French Bread - Rachel Naylor

Ingredients:
1 Tbs yeast
1/4 C warm water
1 C hot water
1 1/2 Tbs Sugar
1/2 Tbs salt
2 1/2 Tbs oil
3 C flour

1 egg white (for crust browning)

Directions:
Dissolve yeast in 1/4 C water. Let stand 10 min (I use instant yeast and don't wait 10 minutes). Combine all ingredients (except egg white) and beat well. Allow the dough to rise until double (about 45 minutes). Punch it down and then allow it to rise again (about 45 minutes). Roll into 1 long loaf and put on a greased baking sheet. Gash the tops diagonally with a knife. Mix the egg white with 1-2 Tbs of water. Brush egg wash over entire loaf. Let rise for at least 30 minutes. Bake in a 400 degree oven for 15-20 minutes.