Activate yeast with sugar and 1/4 cup warm water.

Mix the rest of the liquid ingredients (honey, oil, remaining water) and add to the yeast mixture.

Add flour and salt to the wet ingredients.

Rest the dough for 15 minutes (autolyse).

Knead the dough until smooth and elastic.

Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Shape the dough into a braid.

Let the braided dough rest for another hour.

Brush the loaf gently with egg wash.

Sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds, if desired.

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Place the loaf in the preheated oven.

Immediately turn the oven temperature down to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

Bake for about 40 minutes.

Tap the loaf to check for doneness; it should sound hollow when tapped and feel firm to the touch.

Let the loaf cool for about 45 minutes before slicing and serving.