Step 1

In a small mixing bowl, add yeast to 1/4 cup water. Sprinkle 1 tsp. sugar over the mixture and let sit for 5 minutes, or until frothy/foamy.

Step 2

Add remaining 1 1/4 cups water and 1 tsp. sugar.

Step 3

Add oil and stir to combine.

Step 4

Combine salt and flour in a medium mixing bowl. Using a stand mixer, or by hand, add the wet mixture to the dry mixture. Beat until smooth on medium speed. If the dough is too wet, add a little more dough to make the dough soft.

Step 5

On a lightly floured surface (or in the mixer bowl with a bread hook), knead dough until smooth and elastic, about 5-6 minutes.

Step 6

Lightly grease a large bowl with a bit of oil and place dough into bowl, turning once to coat. Cover with dish towel and let rise for 45 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Step 7

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set oven to 400 degrees F.

Step 8

Punch down dough and, on a lightly floured surface, divide into 8 balls. Shape each ball into a long oval, roughly the size of the hoagie roll you wish to make. Arrange long ovals on parchment paper about 2 inches apart. Slice a 1/4-inch deep slit across the top of each piece.

Step 9

Cover again and let rise an additional 25 minutes.

Step 10

Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack.