Italian “Supermarket” Bread

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl, except the sesame seeds and the corn meal, until you have a smooth supple dough. Adjust the water or flour as necessary. Knead for 8 minutes. Then oil dough lightly. Cover and let rise for 45 to 60 minutes.

Transfer dough to a work surface and divide dough into three (3) 12 to 13-inch logs. Braid the logs, pinching and sealing both the ends. Transfer the braided loaf to a baking sheet. Sprinkle the baking sheet with corn meal, if using. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and allow it to rise for 45 minutes.

Spray the dough gently with warm water. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, if you are using them. Bake the bread in a preheated 400F oven for about 25 minutes, or until it is golden brown. Turn off the oven, crack the oven door open a inch or two. Allow the bread to cool in the oven. Hear it crackle. This is one delicious loaf.