• In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, add the yeast, water, sourdough starter, and sugar or honey. Mix a bit, next add in the olive oil, salt, and flour. Mix until a soft dough forms. Continue to knead by hand or using the dough hook on your mixer. The dough will be slightly sticky.

  Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for an hour or two.

  After the dough has risen, punch down and turn out onto a lightly floured surface. Cut the dough in half and pat it into a rectangle, then roll each section into a long loaf. Place the seam down on a greased or parchment-lined sheet pan. Pinch the ends to seal and tuck them under.

  Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.

  Preheat the oven to 400°

  After the loaves have risen, use a sharp knife or a bread lame and make four diagonal slashes on the top of the loaves.

  Brush the loaves with an egg wash, cornstarch or arrowroot wash, or melted butter. Any of these options will give the loaf a nice glossy finish.

  Bake the loaves for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Cornstarch or Arrowroot wash

• In a small saucepan, combine water and cornstarch or arrowroot powder. Cook and stir over medium heat until thickened. Brush over the loaves after slashing.

Egg wash

• Simply whisk together 1 egg and 1 tbs water, brush over the loaves.