Italian Bread With Sesame Seeds (Scali)

Directions

1. Note* This will be a very stiff dough and will be slow to rise.
2. Combine the first four ingredients and mix together well. (This is a sponge, a mix which helps the yeast develop and increase volume during baking.) Let the mix sit covered with plastic wrap till very bubbly and it falls back on its own, about 20 to 30 min depending on the room temperature.
3. Add in the next four ingredients and mix by hand or possibly on a mixing machine with a dough hook for 8 min at low speed.
4. After mixing, place in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap and set aside to rise in a hot draft- free place till double in size. This will take about 1 hour. After it has risen, punch it down and repeat the process one more time.
5. Pre-heat oven to 400F.
6. Beat the egg white with the water and set aside.
7. After the rising process, place the dough on a floured surface and divide in two equal pcs. Now divide each ball in three. Roll the pcs into 3/4 inch by 18 inch strips. Place 3 strips parallel with each other and 2 inches apart. Healthy pinch the dough together at one end and begin to braid the dough. If you do not want to braid the dough you may form the dough into two round loaves. Place the loaves on greased baking sheets. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for 40 min. Carefully and slowly remove the plastic wrap, brush the dough with the egg white mix all around and sprinkle liberally with the sesame seeds.*(Note if you have formed round loaves-Make 4 deep slashes with a razor blade or possibly sharp knife across the top of the dough, being careful not to tear and deflate the dough.)
8. Place in the pre heated oven and bake for 35-40 min, turning the baking pans around after 20 min. Remove from the oven and cold on wire racks. Enjoy when slightly cooled with your favorite Italian dish and Virgin Extra virgin olive oil.
9. Serving Size: 2 loaves
10. Preparation Time: 4:00