Easy French Loaves

2 tbs active dry yeast

2 cups warm water

2 tsp salt

1 tsp sugar

4 1/2-5 cups flour

1 tsp cornmeal

In a large bowl, dissolve yest in warm water. Add salt, sugar and 2 cups flour. Mix until smooth. Stir in remaining flour to form soft dough.

Turn onto floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic (6-8 min). Place in a greased bowl and turn once to grease the top. Cover and let rise until doubled, about an hour.

Punch dough down. Turn onto a lightly floured surface and divide in half. Shape into 12 inch long loaves. Place seam side down ona greased baking sheet. Cover and let rise until doubled (about 30 min). Sprinkle with cornmeal. Make shallow slices with a knife across the top of each loaf. Bake a 450 for 15-20 min.