Polish Chleb

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
• 1½ cups warm water (110°F)
• 2 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1½ tsp salt
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

1. 1Combine warm water, yeast, and sugar in a large bowl, let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. 2Stir in vegetable oil and salt until fully incorporated.
3. 3Gradually add flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
4. 4Knead on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. 5Place in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise for 1 hour until doubled.
6. 6Punch down and shape into a round loaf.
7. 7Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let rise for 30 minutes.
8. 8Preheat oven to 375°F during the last 10 minutes of rising.
9. 9Score the top in a cross pattern.
10. 10Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
11. 11Cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.