Challah II

1 (.25 ounce) package instant yeast

1 cup warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C)

⅔ cup canola oil

⅔ cup honey

3 eggs

2 teaspoons salt

6 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 egg white

1 tablespoon water

In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Let stand until creamy, about 10 minutes.

Stir the oil, honey, eggs, salt and four cups of flour into the yeast mixture; beat well. Stir in the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. When the dough has pulled together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and supple, about 8 minutes.

Lightly oil a large bowl, place the dough in the bowl and turn to coat with oil. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place until doubled in volume, about 1 hour.

Deflate the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface divide into 4 pieces and braid. Place the loaf on a lightly greased baking sheet. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise until doubled in volume, about 40 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

In a small bowl, combine the egg white and water; beat lightly. Brush the risen loaf with the egg wash.

Bake in preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until golden brown.