Plaited cheese and herb bread

Method

1. Gently combine all of the bread ingredients together to form a dough, gradually add the water until you reach the desired consistency (you may not require the full amount).

2. Knead the dough in a mixer with a dough hook attachment for 5 minutes or by hand for 10 minutes. If mixing by hand knead for a further 5 minutes.

3. Split the dough into 3 equal pieces and roll into long sausage shapes, equal in length.

4. Plait the strands of dough together and tuck the ends underneath the dough to hold in place.

5. Place the dough on an oiled baking tray and glaze with the egg. Cover the dough with a lightly oiled cling film then prove until double in size.

6. Preheat the oven to 190°C (170°C fan, gas mark 5).

7. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese over the top of the loaf. Bake for 35 minutes until golden.