Easy French Bread

I really prefer to make hoagie subs with this recipe because they are just so good. I'm never going to buy hoagies again!

2 1/2 C. very warm water
1 Tbsp. salt
2 Tbsp. sugar
2 Tbsp. yeast
2 Tbsp. olive oil
5 to 6 C. flour

Mix water, salt, sugar, yeast, olive oil and 3 cups flour vigorously for 3 minutes. Add 2 to 3 more cups of flour and knead until smooth (about 5 minutes). Let rise at least 60. Punch down and divide with a sharp knife into 2 pieces (8-12 pieces to make hoagie rolls).

Roll each piece into a rectangle and roll up jelly roll style. Seal edge, then place, edge side down on a cookie sheet sprinkled with corn meal. Cover and let rise 30 minutes. With a very sharp knife, make 3 cuts at an angle across top of each loaf. Brush entire surface with 1 beaten whole egg mixed with water. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes (around 10 minutes if making hoagies) or until golden brown.

This recipe is great for french dip sandwiches or meatball subs. I haven't tried them with hot dogs yet, but it sounds so good.