posted by jeanndan 03-11-99 7:08 PM
Crusty French Bread
Source:Taste of Home
1 pkg. (1/4oz.) active dry yeast
1 1/2 cups warm water (110-115 degrees, divided
1 Tbls. sugar
2 tsp. salt
1 Tbls. shortening, melted
4 cups all-purpose flour
Cornmeal
In a mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in 1/2 cup water. Add sugar,
salt, shortening and remaining water; stir until dissolved.
Add flour, and stir until smooth (do not knead).
Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled.
Turn onto a floured surface.
Divide in half; let rest 10 minutes.
Roll each half into a 10"x8"
rectangle. Roll up from the long side; pinch to seal.
Place seam side down on greased baking sheets. Sprinkle with cornmeal.
Cover and let rise until doubled, about 45 minutes.
Preheat oven to 400.
With a very sharp knife, make five diagonal cuts across the top of each
loaf. Bake for 20-30 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool on wire racks.
Yield 2 loaves.