Italian Supermarket Bread
Recipe By : King Arthur Flour

3 1/2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon sugar
2 teaspoons yeast
1 1/4 cups water -- 105-115 degrees
2 tablespoons olive oil

Dissolve yeast in water and allow to sit for five minutes. In a large bowl, combine the yeast and water with 2 cups of the flour and the remaining ingredients. Gradually add the remaining flour a little at a time until the dough forms a shaggy mass. Turn out onto a lightly floured counter and knead for approximately 15 minutes, adding additional flour as needed. The dough should remain slightly sticky. Allow dough to rise for about 1 hour in a greased and lightly covered bowl until dough is doubled. Divide the dough into three 12- to 14-inch logs. Braid the logs, pinching and sealing both ends, and transfer the braid to a lightly greased baking sheet. Cover and allow to rise until doubled, about 45 minutes. Spray the dough with warm water and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired. Bake in a preheated 400-degree F oven for about 25 minutes, or until golden brown. Turn off the oven, crack it open an inch or so and allow the bread to cool in the oven.