Combine the first three ingredients to dissolve the yeast. Let sit for 5 min. or until foamy.
Add the next 4 ingredients and then the flour and salt, adding as much flour as you need for the dough to start pulling away from the side of the bowl.
Remove to a floured surface and knead until the dough is no longer sticky.
Place in an oiled bowl, turn over once, cover and let rise until doubled in bulk.
Divide dough into 9 balls and roll each ball into a “rope” using your hands.
Braid 3 ropes together into 1 braided loaf of bread and continue with the other 6 ropes, making 3 loaves in all.
Let the bread rise again.
Make an egg wash and brush on the bread and bake in a 325º oven until golden and cooked through, about 30 min.