Homemade French Bread

2 1/2 c warm water
2 T yeast
3 T sugar
2 T white vinegar
*mix these four together and let sit util bubbly, about 10 min*

then add:
1 T. salt
1/3c. canola oil
6 c flour (or a little more if its to soft)
*I do most of this in my kitchen aid with the dough hook and then knead the last cup or so by hand.

Knead for 2-5 minutes and then put in oven with a small pot of boiling water. The water will keep the dough moist. Punch down the dough when it gets to the top of the mixing bowl (2-5 times)

Put the dough on a greased countertop and divide into 3 sections. Spray a cookie sheet with cooking spray and sprinkle a thin layer of cornmeal on the bottom of the sheet. Roll the dough balls into rentangle/long French bread shapes. Slash tops of bread diagonally 3-5 times and cover with a beaten egg. Let rise 30 minutes (or until doubled). Or you can put them in your oven at 170 and wait until they are the size you want to cook them at. Once they are to the right size turn up your stove to 375 without opening the door and let them bake until done. 375 for 30 minutes.

*I LOVE this recipe! This is the same recipe I use to make breadbowls I just grab about a fist size and make it into a ball instead of a loaf, then do everything the same. They are delicious. This also freezes good. I usually make spagetti or something and we eat one loaf, then the other two I make into chicken bacon subs or bread bowls and throw in the freezer.

I got this recipe from Deals to Meals.