challah

Ingredients:

• Warm water
• 1 tbsp sugar (for yeast)
• Yeast
• 1/2 cup oil
• 4–4 1/2 cups flour (start with 4)
• Salt
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 3 eggs

Steps:

1. In a bowl, combine warm water, 1 tbsp sugar, and yeast. Let sit until foamy.

2. Add oil to the yeast mixture.

3. In a separate bowl, sift in 4 cups of flour and add a pinch of salt.

4. In another bowl, beat the eggs and add 1/4 cup sugar.

5. Combine wet ingredients (yeast mixture + eggs) with the flour.

6. Using a stand mixer with a dough hook on low speed, mix until dough comes together.

7. If the dough feels too wet, add more flour a little at a time (up to about 1/2 cup).

8. Knead until smooth and fully incorporated.

9. Lightly oil a bowl, place dough inside, and cover.

10. Let rise until doubled in size.

11. Punch down the dough and transfer to a floured surface.

12. Divide into either: 2 medium loaves (3 strands each), or 1 large loaf (6 strands)

13. Roll and knead each piece into strands, then braid.

14. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between loaves.

15. Cover and let rise again.

16. Brush with egg wash.

17. Bake at 350°F until golden brown.

18. Let cool slightly, then serve.