French Bread

Directions

1. 1
   Place warm water in a large mixing bowl; sprinkle yeast over water.
2. 2
   Add salt and 4 cups of flour; beat until well mixed.
3. 3
   Add enough remaining flour to make a stiff dough.
4. 4
   Turn out onto a floured board and knead until smooth.
5. 5
   Place dough in bowl; cover with damp cloth.
6. 6
   Allow dough to almost triple (about 2 1/2 hours).
7. 7
   Punch dough down and then allow to rise another 40 minutes.
8. 8
   Divide dough into 4 parts.
9. 9
   Using palms of hands, roll each part into a 15-inch long roll.
10. 10
    Sprinkle cornmeal on cookie sheet.
11. 11
    Place rolls of dough over cornmeal.
12. 12
    Make a 1/2-inch deep cut down the length of each roll.
13. 13
    Let rise for 2 hours.
14. 14
    Bake in a preheated 400° oven for 40 to 45 minutes or until done.