Homemade French Bread

Ingredients

 * 2 packages dry yeast
 * 2 c. boiling water
 * 1/2 c. warm water
 * 7 1/2-.8 c. flour
 * 2 Tbs. Sugar
 * 1 egg, beaten
 * 2 tsp. salt
 * 2 Tbs. milk
 * 2 Tbs. shortening
 * poppy or sesame seeds

Directions

 * 1) Dissolve yeast in warm water.
 * 2) Combine Sugar, shortening, salt, and water together and let cool to lukewarm.
 * 3) Add in yeast mixture.
 * 4) Stir in flour.
 * 5) Knead 10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic
 * 6) Place in greased bowl, turning once.
 * 7) Let rise until doubled. Punch down and let rest 15 minutes. Divide dough in half.
 * 8) On floured surface, roll each half to a 12"x15" rectangle. Roll up, starting at 15" edge.
 * 9) Place loaves on greased cookie sheets and make 4 or 5 slashes diagonally across tops.
 * 10) Let rise until double.
 * 11) Mix egg and milk and brush on top of bread.
 * 12) Sprinkle on poppy or sesame seeds, if desired.
 * 13) Bake at 400 F for 20 minutes.