2 1/4-oz.packages active dry yeastfound in any grocery store, usually in three-packs
2 to 4-1/2cupswhite flour
1tbsp.salt
2tbsp.sugar
2cupswarm water
1/4cupvegetable oil
Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
In large mixing bowl combine yeast, 2 cups flour, salt, sugar; add water and oil and mix lightly with a wooden spoon for 30 seconds, then vigorously for 3 minutes. Add the rest of the flour by hand until the dough is very stiff. Place dough on a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky. Place in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a towel and leave in a warm place to rise (about 30 to 45 minutes).
After that time, the dough should be 1-1/2 to 2 times its original size. Punch it down with fist about 3 times. Divide into 2 equally-sized balls, cover with cloth and let rest for 10 minutes on the counter. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees.
After 10 minutes, coat the inside of a loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray. Slightly flatten the dough on a floured surface, and then roll it up and tuck under the ends. Place into the loaf pan. Bake for 40 minutes, or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped. Put on racks to cool and brush with melted butter.
For crusty French-like bread, brush loaves with egg whites before baking.