1
Combine all of the ingredients, kneading to form a smooth dough.
2
Allow the dough to rise, in a covered bowl, until it's doubled in size, about 90 minutes.
3
Gently divide the dough in half; it'll deflate somewhat.
4
Gently shape the dough into two oval loaves; or, for longer loaves, two 10" to 11" logs. Place the loaves on a lightly greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise until very puffy, about 1 hour. Towards the end of the rising time, preheat the oven to 425°F.
5
Spray the loaves with lukewarm water.
6
Make two fairly deep diagonal slashes in each; a serrated bread knife, wielded firmly, works well here.
7
Bake the bread for 25 to 30 minutes, until it's a very deep golden brown. Remove it from the oven, and cool on a rack.
