My Favorite Sub (Hoagie) Rolls

Step 1

Dissolve sugar in water and add yeast to proof. Rest one to two minutes.

Step 2

Melt butter and, along with the salt, stir into yeast mixture.

Step 3

Mix in flour, 1 cup at a time until desired consistency is reached (this dough should not be terribly stick to the touch, but should have plenty of "give" and not be too tough).

Step 4

Knead until VERY well developed (important!). Your dough is finished when you can tear a small piece off, roll into a ball and stretch to form a nearly transparent "window" between your fingers without it tearing.

Step 5

Cover with plastic wrap and let stand until doubled in bulk (approx 40 minutes).

Step 6

Lightly dust a small amount of corn meal over well-greased pans, roll your dough into long, thin "logs" and place about 3" apart on the pans. Slash each loaf every inch and a half with a knife, brush with egg white and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.

Step 7

Let double in size.

Step 8

Bake in a 400°F oven until golden brown.