1 pkg. dry yeast
2 tsp. sugar
1 1/4 c. warm water
4 1/2 to 5 c. white flour
2 tsp. salt
2 eggs
2 tbsp. melted butter or oil
1 egg yolk
Sesame or poppy seeds

Dissolve yeast in 1/4 cup of warm water, and add the sugar. Sift 4 cups of flour with salt into a large mixing bowl. Add 2 eggs, oil or butter, rest of the water, and the yeast mixture. Stir vigorously until well blended. Knead dough well until it is smooth, elastic and not sticky. Let rise 1 hour. Punch down and let rise again. Shape the braid. Divide dough into 2 parts; one slightly larger than the other. Cut larger part into 3 pieces. Roll into 3 ropes and make a braid. Place in middle of a greased baking sheet. Cut other part into 3 pieces. Make another braid and place on top of larger braid. Cover and let rise about 1/2 hour. Brush with egg yolk and sprinkle with seeds. Bake at 375 degrees for about 40 minutes until golden brown.