Becky's Braid bread

2 packages dry yeast

5 to 6 1/2 cups unbleached flour

2 cups hot water from tap (about 120 degrees)

2 Tbl sugar

1 Tbl salt

2 Tbl oil· 

Combine 1 1/2 cups flour, yeast, salt and sugar. Mix well.· Add oil to water and add to above flour mixture.· Beat at low speed for 3 minutes to dissolve yeast.· Add flour to make a moderately stiff dough. (I use about 3 cups.)· Knead 5 minutes.· Turn dough into greased bowl. Cover. Let rise 2 hours or until double.· Divide dough in half; then each half into thirds. Roll each into a 16” rope. Braid. (Will make 2 braid loaves.)· Lightly grease cookies sheet. Place braids on sheet and let rise until double. (about 30-45 mins)· Just before baking, mix one egg yolk and one Tbsp water and brush over braids. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top.· Bake 400 for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.