French Bread

French Bread

1 1/4 cups water (70 to 80 degrees F) 

2 teaspoons sugar 

1 teaspoon salt 

3 1/2 cups bread flour 

1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast 

1 tablespoon cornmeal 

Olive Oil

Mrs Dash

In bread machine pan, place the first five ingredients in the order suggested by the manufacturer. Select dough setting (check dough after 5 minutes of mixing; add 1 to 2tablespoons of water or flour if needed). 

When cycle is completed, turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Divide in half. Roll each portion into a 10-in. x 8-in. rectangle. Roll up jelly-roll style, starting with a long side; pinch seams to seal. 

Sprinkle a greased baking sheet with cornmeal; place loaves seam side down on prepared pan. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 20 minutes. With a sharp knife, make four shallow slashes across the top of each loaf. Brush olive oil over loaves and sprinkle with Mrs. Dash. Bake at 375 degrees F for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on wire racks. 

We had this bread with French Onion Soup for dinner and it was GOOD!  December 20, 2010

Adapted from allrecipes.com