BREAD STICKS

1 pkg active dry yeast
2/3 cup warm water
1 tbsp sugar
1/4 cup oil
1 tsp salt
2 cups bread flour (approximately)
oil (to brush on bread sticks)
1 egg white beaten with 2 tbsp water (for glaze)
sesame seeds or poppy seeds (or coarse salt)

Butter a large baking sheet.

In large mixing bowl combine the yeast and 2/3 cup warm water, stirring until dissolved.

Add 1/4 cup oil, salt, sugar, and 1 cup flour. Beat until smooth with a rubber spatula for 1 minute. In a heavy-duty mixer gradually add sufficient flour to make a soft, workable dough. Turn out on a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic.

Roll the dough into a rectangle and with a dough scraper cut into 20 slices. Roll each portion into a pencil-like rope 8 inches long. Place 1 inch apart on baking sheet, brush lightly with oil, cover, and let rise 20 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Brush the glaze over the bread sticks and sprinkle with seeds or salt.

Bake 25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let bread sticks cool on wire racks.

Makes 20 breadsticks
Source: America's Bread Book: 300 Authentic Recipes for America's Favorite Homemade Breads by Mary Gubser
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