Zomick's Bakery Original Challah Recipe

Ingredients

 * 1/2 cups water
 * 1/2 cup +1 tbsp sugar
 * tsp active dry yeast
 * cups high gluten white or wheat flour
 * 3/4 tsp salt
 * large eggs
 * 1/3 cup olive oil
 * Sprinkle of sesame, poppy seeds, raisins, honey or cinnamon & sugar
 * 5lb Version (Original x3)
 * 1/2 cups water (start with 4 cups)
 * 1/2 cups + 3 tbsp sugar
 * tbsp yeast
 * ¼ tsp salt
 * 15-16 cups flour
 * large eggs
 * cup olive oil

Directions

 * 1) Mix 2 tablespoons of sugar into 1 cup hot water. Sprinkle the yeast on top without mixing. Let rest 10 - 15 mins until air pockets form at top.
 * 2) Combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt in mixing bowl. Add yeast mixture, 1 egg, oil and remaining 1 cup water.
 * 3) Knead for 15 minutes. If you use a mixer, watch for elasticity as kneading times may vary. Add more water or flour if needed.
 * 4) Place the dough in large bowl, cover with plastic wrap and allow the dough to rise for ½  hour.
 * 5) Punch down and place on floured surface. Rip off piece of dough, wrap it in foil, say the Bracha and throw it into the oven as an offering.
 * 6) Divide the dough into two or three sections, then divide each section into three ropes. Braid and say a prayer for others. Loosely cover braids and allow to rise for 2 hours.
 * 7) Preheat oven to 300*F. Beat the remaining egg and generously brush braids. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, raisins or cinnamon and sugar.
 * 8) Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown crust has formed.
 * 9) Enjoy this challah recipe with Zomick's!