ST. JOSEPH'S DAY BREAD

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St. Joseph's Day Bread image

Posted by request. This bread is usually made once a year to celebrate St. Joseph's Day (March 19th). Prep time includes all kneading/rising time (approx. 2 1/2 hours).

Provided by Dee514

Categories     Yeast Breads

Time 2h55m

Yield 2 braided loaves

Number Of Ingredients 9

1 1/2 cups water (not hot)
2 (2 ounce) packages active dry yeast
2 tablespoons shortening
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon cooking oil
2 teaspoons salt
4 -4 1/2 cups flour
1 beaten egg
1/4 cup sesame seeds

Steps:

  • In a small bowl, combine the water, yeast, shortening, sugar, oil and salt.
  • Let stand for 5 minutes.
  • In a large mixer bowl, put 2 1/2 cups of the flour, add liquid (yeast) mixture.
  • Beat by hand or on low speed of electric mixer until all ingredients are well blended.
  • Stir in as much of the remaining flour as you can mix in with a spoon.
  • Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
  • Knead in enough of the remaining flour to make a moderately stiff dough that is smooth and elastic (about 6-8 minutes of kneading).
  • Shape dough into a ball and place it into a lightly greased bowl.
  • Turn dough once to grease all surfaces.
  • Cover the bowl, and let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled (about 40-60 minutes).
  • Punch down dough, and divide it into 6 equal pieces.
  • Cover it and let it rest for 10 minutes.
  • Roll each piece (by hand) into a 12 inch long rope.
  • Using 3 ropes for each loaf, braid the dough and secure the ends of the braid by tucking the ends underneath.
  • Place the braids on greased baking sheets.
  • Cover the braids, and let rise until nearly doubled (about 30-45 minutes).
  • Brush top and sides of loaves with the beaten egg.
  • Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
  • Bake in a 400°F oven for 25 minutes, or until bread tests done and is golden brown.
  • Remove from baking sheet and cool on wire rack.

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