Chewy French Baguette

Dissolve sugar in water in a 2-cup measuring cup; gently stir in yeast. Let stand until yeast softens and top is foamy, about 5 minutes.

Whisk 3 3/4 cups flour and salt together in a large bowl; make a well in the center. Pour yeast mixture into well; stir gently, starting from the middle, until a sticky dough forms. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface; knead, adding more flour if needed, until dough is elastic and no longer sticky, about 10 minutes.

Oil a large bowl; add dough and turn to coat. Cover with a towel and let rise in a warm place until doubled in volume, about 1 hour.