Karen's Fabulous French Bread

I actually won 1st prize at "Mayfair" with this amazing bread recipe when I was a young woman!  I'm very happy to resurrect this classic recipe that Karen gave to Mema! 

2 1/2 c warm water
4 1/2 tsp. yeast
2 TB vegetable oil
2 TB sugar
1 TB salt
6 c flour

In a mixing bowl, pour in warm water and stir in the sugar and yeast.  Allow to stand until yeast is dissolved.  Stir in salt, oil, and half the flour.  Beat vigorously.  Stir in remaining flour.  Allow the dough to rest 10 minutes, and then mix again for about 30 seconds.  Repeat the mixing/resting process, for a total of 5 times.

Divide the dough in half and form into 2 elongated, french bread-shaped loaves.  Lightly sprinkle cornmeal onto greased cookie sheets.  Place loaves on top of the cornmeal.  Cover and let rise for about 1 1/2 hours at room temperature.  With a sharp knife, cut 3 gashes at an angle on top of the loaves.  Brush the whole surface of the loaves with a beaten egg or egg white, mixed with 1 TB water.  If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top.  Bake at 400 degrees for 25 - 30 minutes or until golden brown.