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1
In a small bowl, soak the saffron threads in the 1 tablespoon of boiling water for 10 minutes.
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2
In the meantime, place the beaten eggs, honey, hot water and melted butter in a bowl. Mix well.
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3
Add the saffron threads with the soaking water, stir and pour the mixture into the baking pan of your bread machine.
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4
Mix the salt into the flour and add to the baking pan and spoon the yeast on top.
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5
Set the program to 'DOUGH.'.
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6
When the dough is ready (mine takes 90 minutes), transfer it to a lightly floured surface and knead it for 2-3 minutes. (The dough will feel quite soft and silky.).
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7
Shape the dough into 3 equal-sized pieces, then roll each piece into a sausage shape measuring approximately 12 inches in length.
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8
Pinch the top end of each length of dough together, then weave the pieces into a braid/plait.
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9
Pinch the bottom ends together, then tuck both ends under the dough to form a neatly braided loaf.
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10
Place the dough on a greased baking sheet, brush with oil, cover with plastic wrap/cling film and leave it to rise/prove in a warm place.
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11
Preheat the oven 220C/425u00b0F.
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12
When the dough has nearly doubled in size, remove the plastic wrap and lightly brush the top of the loaf with the beaten egg.
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13
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
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14
Transfer the loaf to a wire rack and leave it to cool before serving.
