Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.
In a large bowl, place water, yeast and sugar. Stir until dissolved and
allow to bloom at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes or until foamy.
Stir in salt and flour. Mix well. Dough will be sticky. Scrape into a
large, greased bowl and cover with a towel. Let rise 45 minutes in a warm
place. Stir dough down.
Grease and sprinkle with semolina, or parchment line and sprinkle with
semolina, 2 1/2 sheet pans. Mound dough in middle and allow to rise,
uncovered, for 45 minutes.
Brush gently with melted butter and place in the oven. Bake 10 minutes at
425 degrees then reduce heat to 375 and bake an additional 20 minutes. Loaf
should be flat and crusty.
Yield: 2 servings (loaves)