Step 1

Use a wooden spoon to combine the water, yeast, and sugar in a small mixing bowl. Let it stand for 5 minutes.

Step 2

Combine 1 cup flour with the olive oil in a second small bowl. Mix well until evenly combined.

Step 3

Add 3 ½ cups flour and salt to a large mixing bowl. Then, stir in the flour and oil. Combine well. Finally, open a well in the center of the flour and pour in the activated yeast sugar water. Mix well with the wooden spoon. Continue mixing until a smooth dough forms.

Step 4

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 5

Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean, damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 6

Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 12 equal portions.

Step 7

Take one portion of the dough and roll it into a rectangular log. Repeat with all portions of dough.

Step 8

Place the loaves on a lightly greased baking sheet. Cover again and let them rise a second time for about 15-20 minutes. While they are rising, preheat the oven to 400F.

Step 9

Bake the bread for about 20-25 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 10

Remove the loaves from the oven, transfer to a wire rack, and leave to cool completely.