Basic French Bread Recipe

Directions

1. 1
   Dissolve yeast in 1/2 c. hot tap water.
2. 2
   Mix flour and salt together in large bowl.
3. 3
   Add in 2 1/4 c. hot water and mix well.
4. 4
   Add in yeast mix, blend.
5. 5
   Knead on floured counter till dough is smooth and elastic, 5 min.
6. 6
   If you have a kitchenaid mixer with a dough hook this whole procedure will take only 4-5 min.
7. 7
   Cover kneaded dough in large greased bowl and let rise till doubled in bulk.
8. 8
   Punch down dough and let rise a second time till doubled.
9. 9
   The dough will make 6 baguettes, 2 braided loaves or possibly 2 free form loaves.
10. 10
    Form loaves, let rise covered with plastic wrap till doubled in size.
11. 11
    Baguettes must be slashed along top.
12. 12
    Bake in a 400 degree oven for 25 min, golden and crispy.