1 pkg. dry yeast
1 tbsp. sugar
1 1/4 c. lukewarm water
4 1/2 c. sifted flour
4-6 tbsp. honey
2 tsp. salt
3 lg. egg yolks
2 tbsp. vegetable oil

BREAD TOPPING:

1 egg yolk
1 tsp. water
4 tbsp. poppy or sesame seeds

1. Combine yeast, sugar and 1/4 cup (90 to 105 degree) water in small bowl. Let stand 5 minutes.

2. Sift flour and salt into a large bowl. Make a well in the center of the flour and drop 3 egg yolks, oil, honey and remaining water and the yeast mixture into it. Mix everything together, you will end up using your hands.

3. Knead dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic. Place dough in a clean, warm bowl and brush the top with a little oil. Cover bowl with a towel and set it in a warm place (e.g. unlighted oven) and let rise 1 hour.

4. Punch down and push into mound, cover again and set in warm place. Let rise until double (about 1 1/2 hours).

5. Divide dough; between lightly floured hands, roll dough for braiding. Make 1 large or 2 small braids.

6. Place bread on greased baking sheet. Cover with towel and set in warm place. Let rise until double in bulk. Then brush top with egg wash (egg yolk and water), sprinkle with seeds.

7. Preheat oven to 375 degrees and bake 25 to 30 minutes.