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1
In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water and let stand until fully dissolved and creamy (this will take close to 10 minutes).
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2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the dissolved yeast mixture, with the flour, butter, egg, sugar and salt and mix this well.
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3
When the dough has come (pulled) together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until nice and smooth.
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4
This will take around 7-8 minutes.
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5
Lightly oil a large mixing bowl, place the dough in this bowl and turn to coat the dough with oil.
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6
Cover with a damp cloth and set aside to rise in a warm place until it has doubled in volume.
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7
This will take approximately 1 hour.
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8
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
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9
Combine ham, cheese, pimento, and olives in a medium bowl, and set aside.
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10
Deflate the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
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11
ROll or pat the dough into a 10x14 inch rectangle.
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12
Make parallel cuts 3/4 inch wide and 2 inches long on the two long edges of the rectangle.
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13
Evenly spread the filling mixture over the center of the rectangle.
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14
Fold the short ends of the rectangle over the filling.
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15
Starting from one of these ends-- alternately stretch strips so that they overlap diagnally.
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16
Transfer the loaf to a lightly greased baking sheet, cover with damp cloth and set aside to rise until doubled in volume.
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17
This will take around 40 minutes or so.
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18
Bake for 20 to 30 minutes or until golden brown.