Hungarian Braided White Bread

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon dry active yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 cup of warm milk
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 3 ½-4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon water

Directions

1. In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in the warm milk.
2. Add the butter, and stir until combined.
3. Add the flour and salt, and mix until a dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise for 1 hour.
6. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope, and braid the ropes together.
7. Place the braided loaf on a greased baking sheet, and let rise for 30 minutes.
8. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
9. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush the loaf with the egg mixture.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
11. Remove from the oven, and let cool before serving.

Interesting Facts

• Hungarian Braided White Bread is traditionally served on Easter and other holidays.
• The braiding of the dough is symbolic of unity and strength.
• The dough can be braided in any number of ways, from a three-stranded braid to a six-stranded braid.