The original challah recipe

=== Also known as the Zomick's Bakery original challah recipe ===
Ingredients:
* 1/2 cups water
* 1/2 cup +1 tbsp sugar
* tsp active dry yeast
* cups high gluten white or wheat flour
* 3/4 tsp salt
* large eggs
* 1/3 cup olive oil
* Sprinkle of sesame, poppy seeds, raisins, honey or cinnamon & sugar
* 5lb Version (Original x3)
* 1/2 cups water (start with 4 cups)
* 1/2 cups + 3 tbsp sugar
* tbsp yeast
* ¼ tsp salt
* 15-16 cups flour 
* large eggs
* cup olive oil
Instructions:
# Mix 2 tablespoons of sugar into 1 cup hot water. Sprinkle the yeast on top without mixing. Let rest 10 - 15 mins until air pockets form at top.
# Combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt in mixing bowl. Add yeast mixture, 1 egg, oil and remaining 1 cup water.
# Knead for 15 minutes. If you use a mixer, watch for elasticity as kneading times may vary. Add more water or flour if needed.
# Place the dough in large bowl, cover with plastic wrap and allow the dough to rise for ½  hour.
# Punch down and place on floured surface. Rip off piece of dough, wrap it in foil, say the Bracha and throw it into the oven as an offering.
# Divide the dough into two or three sections, then divide each section into three ropes. Braid and say a prayer for others. Loosely cover braids and allow to rise for 2 hours.
# Preheat oven to 300*F. Beat the remaining egg and generously brush braids. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, raisins or cinnamon and sugar.
# Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown crust has formed. 
# Enjoy this challah recipe with Zomick's!
Category:Breads
Category:Challah Recipes
Category:Bread Recipes
Category:Jewish Recipes
Category:Jewish Cook Book