Friday Night Challah

Ingredients

 * 1 package dry yeast
 * 1 cup water
 * 2 tbsp sugar
 * 1 tsp salt
 * 2 large eggs and yolk of a third
 * 2 tbsp oil
 * 3 to 3 1/2 cups flour
 * Poppy or sesame seeds (optional)

Steps
Pour lukewarm water in large mixing bowl. Sprinkle in yeast and stir until dissolved. Add sugar and salt. Stir well. Beat eggs into mixture. Add oil and beat a little more. Gradually stir in 3 cups flour until mixed well. Place dough on floured board and knead 3 to 4 minutes. Add more flour while kneading if required. Dough should be smooth and elastic, not sticky. Place dough in oiled bowl and let rise 2-3 hours. Remove to floured board and pound out air bubbles. Divide into 4 equal parts. Stretch and roll 3 of them 1/2" thick and braid, then make another braid and put on top. Place on cookie sheet and let rise. Sprinkle with poppy or sesame seeds if desired. Bake 1 hour at 350°.