Delicious Challah

Challah is the name of the special loaves of braided bread which are served at the Shabbat & holiday meals. Such bread on the table is a sign of festivity.

Ingredients 
4 tablespoons of dry yeast
4 cups warm water
1 tablespoon sugar

1 cup sugar
1 1/3 cups oil
4 eggs
2 tablespoons salt
1 5lb bag (14-15 cups) of flour

Glaze: 1 egg beaten

Yields: 6 loaves

Directions:
In a medium glass bowl combine yeast and 1 tablespoon sugar in 4 cups warm water. Set aside 5 to 10 minutes.
Place flour in large mixing bowl. Take out 2 cups of flour to be added later. Add remaining sugar and salt and mix well. Push the flour mixture against the sides of the bowl, making a well in the center.
Pour in the yeast mixture, eggs and oil. Kneed dough (I use a machine) Add flour as necessary.
Place dough in an oiled bowl. Cover with a dry towel and let rise in a warm spot for 1 1/2 hours.
Punch down and separate Challah with a blessing.
Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and divide into 6-7 sections.
Shape dough as desired and place in greased pans. let rise for 45 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350°. Brush loaves with beaten egg and bake  for 30 - 45 minutes until golden brown.
Remove from pans and cool on racks.

For a darker look bake at 370 for 25-30 min