French Bread

Directions

1. 1
   In the bowl of a standing mixer, combine 1.5 cups flour with the salt, sugar, and yeast. Add water and beat for 3 minutes. Beat in enough additional flour to make a soft but kneadable dough.
2. 2
   Turn dough out onto floured surface and knead for 3-5 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a bowl, cover with tea towel, and let rise 45 minutes(an hour if your house is cold).
3. 3
   Punch dough down and roll into a long rectangular shape. Starting from the long end, roll up jelly-roll style.
4. 4
   Place seam-side down on a greased baking sheet, cover with a wet tea towel, and let rise 30-45 minutes, or until doubled(it'll depend on the warmth of your house).
5. 5
   Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Whisk one egg white with one tablespoon of water until slightly foamy. Using a pastry brush, gently brush beaten egg white onto loaves. Using a sharp knife, make 3-4 diagonal slashes on top of the loaf.
6. 6
   Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until nicely browned. Cool on a wire rack.