Brown Bread

Sprinkle the yeast over 1 3/4 cups warm water, let stand for 5 mintues or until bubbly. Dissolve molasses in remaining 1/4 cup water. Mix 2 cups flour, salt and sugar in a large bowl. Add the oil and the molasses and yeast mixtures, and stir until well-mixed. Add the remaining 3-4 cups of flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until you get a smooth, elastic dough. Turn onto a lightly floured board and knead for 8 minutes. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and turn to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise until doubled, about 1 hour. Punch the dough down, and then cover and let rise for 45 minutes. Preheat oven at 400 degrees Farenheit Divide the dough in half, shape into ovals and place in two loaf pans. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise 45 minutes. Brush loaves with eggwash, sprinkle with oats and place in 400 degree oven for 10 minutes. Reduce heat to 350 and bake for 20-25 minutes. Cool on a rack.