Combine the water, yeast and sugar in the large bowl, stir well and let 'proof' for 5-10 minutes or until foamy.
In a mixer bowl, combine the flour, salt, and lard and knead in the butter with your hands until broken up into very small pieces. When the yeast is foamy, put the dough hook attachment on the mixer and gradually add the flour mixture on low speed until its all incorporated.
Scrape the sides down between additions. When the dough comes together, take it out of the mixer and onto a floured work surface and knead until smooth and elastic about 5-10 minutes, adding more flour if necessary.

Coat a large bowl lightly with the olive oil, then put the dough in, turning once to coat both sides then cover loosely with a clean dry towel or plastic wrap.
Let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in bulk, about 1-1/2 hours.

Punch the dough down split into 2 equal pieces and shape into 2 flat rounds about 9 inches across (it will expand to about 10"). Place the dough on a lightly oiled parchment paper lined baking sheet. Sprinkle the top with sesame seeds, about 2-3 tbsp should do it, then press them lightly into the dough. Loosely cover the loaf and let rise until doubled in bulk, about 1 hour. When the dough has risen, remove the cover, gently brush with the egg wash, sprinkle with sesame seeds if your using them, then put into a pre-heated 400°F oven for 10 minutes. Turn the heat down to 375°F for an additional 10 minutes or until the loaf(s) are golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.