Braided Broccoli-Pesto Bread

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Let stand until creamy, about 10 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups bread flour, olive oil, salt, white sugar and the yeast mixture; stir well to combine.
3. Knead well until a stiff dough has formed. If dough is too sticky- gradually add the extra half
4. cup of flour. Cover and rise until doubled in volume, about 30 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
6. When the dough as proofed, turn it out onto a well floured surface, form dough into an oval shape and roll out.
7. Add the pesto ingredients to your food processor fitted with a steel blade and process until smooth.
8. Spread the pesto into the middle of the dough and cut inch-thick strips onto either side.
9. To "braid" the bread- overlap one over the other- stretching each piece to seal the the beneath it.
10. Once the loaf is braided- brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with sea salt.
11. Slide a the loaf onto a cookie sheet or pizza stone, and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and crisp. Cut into slices and serve warm dipped into your favorite sauce.