Rich Rosemary Breadsticks

Directions

1. 1
   Place half the water in a large bowl.
2. 2
   Stir in the yeast and the sugar.
3. 3
   Allow to sit about 10 minutes, or until the yeast is bubbling.
4. 4
   Add the remaining water, 2 tablespoons of the oil and the salt.
5. 5
   Stir to combine.
6. 6
   Begin to stir in the flour, 1 cup at a time.
7. 7
   When it forms a dough, turn it onto a lightly floured board and knead in the remaining flour.
8. 8
   Knead the dough for 8 minutes, then knead in the herbs and the pepper.
9. 9
   Continue to knead for another 3 to 4 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
10. 10
    Oil a large bowl, add the dough and turn to coat with the oil.
11. 11
    Cover lightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until doubled in bulk, 5 to 6 hours.
12. 12
    Punch the dough down and divide it into 4 pieces.
13. 13
    Roll out each piece into a 6-by-11-inch rectangle less than inch thick.
14. 14
    Cut them into strips a little less than i inch wide.
15. 15
    Oil the baking sheets and place the strips about inch apart.
16. 16
    Brush lightly with oil and set aside for 1 hour to rise.
17. 17
    Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
18. 18
    Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until golden.
19. 19
    Cool on racks and serve.