Challah in a Hurry

Ingredients

• 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons white sugar
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 1/2 cups warm water

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine 1/2 cup flour, salt, yeast, and sugar. Stir in oil and warm water. Mix in remaining flour until dough is stiff.
2. Knead dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes. Place dough in an oiled bowl and turn to coat.
3. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
4. Punch down dough and divide into 3 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long, thin rope and braid together. Place on a greased baking sheet.
5. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 45 minutes.
6. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
7. Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until golden brown.

Interesting Facts

• Challah is a traditional Jewish bread served on Shabbat and holidays.
• The three strands of the braid represent the three patriarchs of the Jewish people: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
• Challah can be made with a variety of ingredients, such as raisins, nuts, and chocolate chips.