Easy Homemade French Bread

I found this recipe for homemade French bread on http://dealstomeals.blogspot.com  I adjusted it a little to make just one large loaf.  It worked out great for my pulled pork sandwiches.  You will need the following ingredients:

1 1/4 cups warm water
1 Tblsp dry active yeast
1 1/2 Tblsp sugar
1 Tblsp white vinegar
2 1/2 Tblsp vegetable or canola oil
2 tsp salt
3 cups bread flour
baking spray, cornmeal, egg wash






Add yeast, sugar, and vinegar to warm water and let stand until foamy.  About 3-5 minutes.

Combine flour and salt in a large mixing bowl.  Add oil to the water then pour over the flour.
Mix well, then knead for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Place the bowl in the oven with a pan of boiling water.  This will keep the dough moist.  Allow to raise about 90 minutes. 

When the dough has reached the top of the bowl, punch down and let it raise again.  Repeat this process 2-5 times depending upon how much time you have.

Shape the dough into a loaf.  Spray a baking sheet and sprinkle lightly with cornmeal.  Place the loaf on the sheet, cut 3-5 slashes in the top with a very sharp knife.  Beat 1 egg in a small dish.  Use a pastry brush to apply the egg to the top of the dough.  This will give it a nice crusty top when baked.
Allow to raise for at least 30 minutes.

Bake at 375 degrees for 25-30 minutes until golden brown on the top.  Allow to cool before slicing.