Combine warm water, yeast, and brown sugar in a mixing bowl. Stir until it starts to bubble and foam.

Add olive oil and salt, then gradually mix in the flour until the dough comes away from the sides of the bowl. Knead with a dough hook for a few minutes.

Cover and let the dough rise for about 30 minutes until it doubles in size.

Punch down the dough, divide into two, and form into loaves. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise again until doubled.

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Beat together 1 egg and 1 tablespoon of water, and brush over the risen loaves. Make a single long quick cut down the center of each loaf.

Place a shallow pan with at least 1 cup of hot water on the rack underneath the bread in the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and hollow when tapped. Add more water to the pan during cooking if needed.

Once done, remove from the pan and let cool on racks. Rub butter over the hot crust for added flavor.