1 1/4 c. warm water
2 pkgs. dry yeast
2 tbsp. shortening
1 tbsp. sugar
1 tbsp. cooking oil
2 tsp. salt
4 to 4 1/2 c. flour
1 beaten egg
1/4 c. sesame seeds

In a small bowl combine warm water, yeast, shortening, sugar, oil and salt. Let stand 5 minutes.

Place 2 1/2 cups of flour in a large bowl. Add liquid mixture. Beat on low speed or stir by hand until ingredients are blended. Stir in as much of the remaining flour as you can mix with a spoon. Then, turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead enough of the remaining flour to make a moderately stiff dough that is elastic.

Shape into a ball, let it rise in a warm place until double in size (45-60 minutes). Punch down. Divide dough into 6 equal pieces. Let rest 10 minutes. Roll into 12 inch ropes, 3 for each loaf. Braid and secure ends. Place on greased baking sheet. Let it rise until double in size.

Brush tops and sides with beaten egg. Sprinkle with sesame seeds. Bake 400 degrees for 25 minutes. Cool on rack.