Step 1

Preheat oven to 325°. In a large bowl, mix sugar, yeast, salt and 2 cups flour. In a small saucepan, heat water and oil to 120°-130°; stir into dry ingredients. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough (dough will be sticky). Turn dough onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top. Cover and let rest 10 minutes.

Step 2

Divide dough into 20 portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion into a14-in. rope. Place ropes 1 in. apart on greased baking sheets. Cover and let rise in a warm place until almost doubled, 15-20 minutes.

Step 3

In a small bowl, whisk egg white with water; brush over tops of dough. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt. Bake until light brown, 20-25 minutes. Remove from pans to wire racks. Serve warm.