Braided Herb Ring

[Mama Mangia]

BRAIDED HERB RING

2 3/4 cups flour - may need a little more
2 tablespoons sugar
2 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast - fast rising
2 teaspoons basil -- or herb blend
1 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup water
1/4 cup milk 1% low-fat
3 tablespoons vegetable oil


In large bowl, combine 1 1/4 cups flour, sugar, undissolved yeast, 1 1/2 teaspoons basil or herbs and salt. Heat water, milk and 2 tablespoons vegetable oil until very warm (125 to 130ºF). Gradually add to dry ingredients and beat 2 minutes at medium speed of electric mixer, scraping bowl occasionally. Beat 2 minutes at high speed. With spoon, stir in enough remaining flour to make soft dough. Knead on floured surface until smooth, about 4 minutes. Divide dough into 3 pieces and roll each to 24-inch rope. Braid ropes. Place braid on greased baking sheet. Form into ring and pinch ends to seal and cover with foil. Place large, shallow pan on counter, half-filled with boiling water. Place baking sheet over pan. Let rise 15 minutes. Bake at 400 degrees F for 25 minutes or until done. Brush remaining vegetable oil onto ring. Sprinkle with remaining basil or herbs. Remove from sheet and cool on wire rack.