Rich Rosemary Breadsticks

1. 1

   Place half the water in a large bowl.

2. 2

   Stir in the yeast and the sugar.

3. 3

   Allow to sit about 10 minutes, or until the yeast is bubbling.

4. 4

   Add the remaining water, 2 tablespoons of the oil and the salt.

5. 5

   Stir to combine.

6. 6

   Begin to stir in the flour, 1 cup at a time.

7. 7

   When it forms a dough, turn it onto a lightly floured board and knead in the remaining flour.

8. 8

   Knead the dough for 8 minutes, then knead in the herbs and the pepper.

9. 9

   Continue to knead for another 3 to 4 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.

10. 10

    Oil a large bowl, add the dough and turn to coat with the oil.

11. 11

    Cover lightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until doubled in bulk, 5 to 6 hours.

12. 12

    Punch the dough down and divide it into 4 pieces.

13. 13

    Roll out each piece into a 6-by-11-inch rectangle less than inch thick.

14. 14

    Cut them into strips a little less than i inch wide.

15. 15

    Oil the baking sheets and place the strips about inch apart.

16. 16

    Brush lightly with oil and set aside for 1 hour to rise.

17. 17

    Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.

18. 18

    Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until golden.

19. 19

    Cool on racks and serve.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.