Country Bread

Instructions

1. 1

   Dissolve yeast and sugar in 1/4 cup warm water and let proof.

2. 2

   Combine flour and salt in large bowl, add yeast mixture and another 1 1/2 cups warm water. Mix thoroughly, adding more water if necessary.

3. 3

   Turn out onto a floured board and knead for 10−15 min. until dough is soft, silky and elastic.

4. 4

   Return to bowl cover and let rise until double, about 1 hour.

5. 5

   Punch dough down and form into one round loaf or two oblong loaves.

6. 6

   Sprinkle base of clay baker with cornmeal. Place loaf in baker and cover.

7. 7

   Let rise for 1 hour.

8. 8

   Cut 2−3 slashes in top of loaf and brush with cold water.

9. 9

   Cover clay baker, place in 450 over and bake for 15 min., reduce heat to 400 and bake another 30−40 min. or until crusty, golden brown.

10. 10

    Cool on rack.