Challah Bread

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Ingredients:

• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Instructions:
a. In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast.
b. Stir the mixture gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions:
a. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
b. Create a well in the center of the flour mixture.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs

Instructions:
a. In a separate bowl, whisk together vegetable oil and 2 eggs.
b. Pour the egg-oil mixture into the well created in the dry ingredients.

Step 4: Mix the Dough

a. Pour the activated yeast mixture into the bowl.
b. Mix all the ingredients together until a dough forms.

Step 5: Knead the Dough

a. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface.
b. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 6: First Rise

a. Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl.
b. Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 7: Punch Down and Shape

a. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
b. Divide the dough into three equal portions.
c. Roll each portion into a long rope.

Step 8: Braid the Dough

a. Braid the three ropes together.
b. Pinch the ends to seal and shape the braid into a loaf.
c. Place the braided dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 9: Second Rise

a. Cover the braided dough with a kitchen towel.
b. Let it rise again for 30-45 minutes.

Step 10: Preheat the Oven

a. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 11: Egg Wash

a. Beat the remaining egg and brush it over the top of the braided dough to create an egg wash.

Step 12: Bake

a. Bake the Challah in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until it turns golden brown.

Step 13: Cool and Serve

a. Allow the Challah bread to cool on a wire rack.
b. Slice and serve once cooled.

Enjoy your homemade Challah bread!