Luscious Challah

Directions

1. 1
   Put ingredients in bread machine according to your manufacturer's directions and put on 'dough cycle.'
2. 2
   Don't throw the egg white away -- you will use it to brush the loaf with later.
3. 3
   Once the ingredients are mixed, check the consistency if you can.
4. 4
   I usually let the machine pause for about 20 minutes for the 'autolyse'.
5. 5
   You can make two smaller braids or one large one.
6. 6
   I love a six-braided loaf!
7. 7
   (Check some bread cookbooks for directions -- too difficult to explain how to braid into six pieces without pictures!)
8. 8
   For a nice structure, divide into pieces, and then flatten each piece into a free--form rectangle about 1/4 - 1/2 inch thick.
9. 9
   Roll up each piece, and gently pull to elongate into ropes, and braid.
10. 10
    Let rise about 45 minutes.
11. 11
    Mix one egg white with 1 teaspoons water and brush over bread.
12. 12
    Top with seeds, if desired.
13. 13
    Bake at 350 for 25-35 minutes, depending on the thickness of the loaf (loaves).
14. 14
    To keep the crust crisp, store cut end down on a breadboard, not in a plastic bag.
15. 15
    Enjoy!