Ingredients:
- 2 packets yeast
- 1 cup sugar + 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup lukewarm water
- 8 cups bread flour
- 4 teaspoons salt
- 8 eggs or 5 eggs plus water to measure 1 1/2 cups
- 3/4 cup oil
Directions:
- Dissolve yeast in water + 1 tablespoon sugar. Let stand.
- Mix flour, salt, sugar and make a well
- Pour in yeast mixture, eggs and oil and mix to combine
- When partially combined, begin to knead, until dough is not sticky, but smooth and satiny
- Place in greased bowl and cover and allow to sit in a warm place until doubled in bulk (2 hours)
- Punch down and divide into three parts and form into 3 large braided loaves
- Cover with towel and set in a warm place (about 45 minutes)
- Brush with egg. Sprinkle with poppy seeds
- Bake at 375 for about 30 minutes