French Bread

French Bread

2 cups hot water

1/3 cup melted shortening or oil

2 Tbsp. Sugar

1 Tbsp. Salt

3 cups flour

2 yeast cakes 

½ cup warm water

3 cups more flour

Mix first 5 ingredients well with a spoon, then dissolve the yeast into the water. Combine the two mixtures and stir well. Add the last ingredient and stir until well mixed.  Cover and time for ten minutes.  Stir down. This is done five times or fifty minutes (10 minute intervals).  Turn dough out on floured board.  Knead just until dough is manageable.  Divide in half.  Roll each half about 9x12.  Roll up like jelly roll.  Place lengthwise on greased cookie sheet.  Slash three times to allow bread to fan out.  Let rise until double.  Bake at 350 degrees or until golden brown.  Makes two loaves. 

Submitted by: Connie Bullock