Italian Bread

Makes: 1 loaf

1 packet dry yeast
1 tsp sugar
1 cup warm water (100-110 degrees)
2-3 cups flour
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
handful of corn meal

Combine yeast, sugar and warm water in large bowl. Let stand 5 minutes.

Add 2 cups flour, oil and salt to bowl. Beat until mixed in using dough hook if available. Continue to add flour. Dough will take on a soft and smooth appearance when enough flour has been added.

Increase speed to medium and beat 5 minutes. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and let stand in warm place (85 degrees) for 30 minutes or until doubled in bulk. Punch down and let stand 10 more minutes..

Turn dough out onto floured surface. Sprinkle corn meal on a lightly greased cookie sheet. Shape dough into 12 inch loaf and place on top of the corn meal. Cut 3 slits across top of the bread.

Bake at 400 for 16 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack.

*Make sure the temp in the area for it to rise is adequate. Mine wasn't when I tried to make this and the bread didn't rise well.