Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Knead 8 to 10 minutes, until you have a smooth dough.
Place dough in lightly greased bowl and turn dough over so its top is also oiled. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place 1 to 1½ hours, until doubled.
Punch down. Turn onto a board and divide in half. Shape into two loaves and place in 2 greased 9x5x3 loaf pans.
Brush the top with a little oil (optional). Cover and let rise 50 minutes, until almost doubled.
Bake 35 minutes, or until bread tests done.
Source: Adapted from Farm Journal's Homemade Breads.