Challah

1½ packagesactive dry yeast
½ cup + 1 tbspsugar
½ cup + 1 tbspolive oil
6large eggs
1 tbspsalt
8 cupsall-purpose flour
1 tbspcaraway seeds
1 tbspwhole milk
1In a large bowl, dissove the yeast and 1 tbsp of sugar in 1¾ cups of water between 110°F—115°F.5 min
2Pre-heat the oven to its lowest setting and turn off once it's up to temperature.5 min
3Using a whisk attachment on a stand-up mixer, add the olive oil, 5 eggs, sugar and salt allowing each new addition to be mixed completely before adding the next.3 min
4Switch to a blade attachment and slow add in the flower about a ¼ cup at a time, allowing each addition to be completely incorporated before adding the next. Continue mixing until the dough has come together into a single ball.5 min
5Switch to a dough hook attachment and allow it to kneed until the dough is smooth and elastic.5 min
6On lightly floured countertop, knead the dough into a ball and place into a clean ball, covered with a damp towel. Place in the oven to rise until doubled in size.60 min
7Punch down the dough, re-form into a ball, and allow to rise again.30 min
8Divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each out into a strand about 12" long and 1½" indiameter. Take three at a time and braid together, taking care to pinch the ends together carefully. This will produce two loaves.10 min
9Place the loaves on a baking sheet covered with parchment paper and place in the refrigerator torise again. Pre-heat the oven to 375°F.60 min
10Mix the remaining egg with the milk and brush lightly over the top of the loaves. Sprinkle thecaraway seeds over the washed loaves.1 min
11Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake until golden brown on the top.20-30 min