Pain Francais

Directions

1. 1
   Dissolve the yeast, salt and sugar into the water and mix the flour sufficient to make a nice smooth dough of medium degree, not too stiff or too soft.
2. 2
   Knead the dough until it no longer adheres to the hand or bowl, cover with a cloth and let rise until it has doubled in size, about 5 hours.
3. 3
   When it begins to sink, work it well again and set to rise again.
4. 4
   When well risen divide the dough into equal pieces, and roll into round balls or long loaves of about two inches in thickness.
5. 5
   Lay the loaves on a board previously sprinkled with flour and at a sufficient distance apart so as not to touch one another, and set to rise again.
6. 6
   Let them rise till double in size.
7. 7
   Brush the loaves with an egg wash. Make diagonal cuts half way across on each loaf.
8. 8
   Place the dough on a baking sheet and bake until lightly golden, about 8 to 10 minutes.
9. 9
   Slice or tear the bread off and serve it with a spoonful of butter.