4 c. warm water
2 yeast cakes
2 tbsp. sugar
3 tsp. salt
1/4 c. brown sugar
1/4 c. white sugar
1/4 tsp. fennel seed
1/4 tsp. anise seed
1/4 c. melted shortening
1/4 c. molasses
2 c. sifted rye flour
6 c. white flour

Dissolve yeast in 1 cup of warm water with 2 tablespoons sugar and let stand until 2 cup measuring cup is full. Add to remaining water and mix all ingredients except white flour. Add about 6 cups of white flour. Turn onto floured board and knead until smooth and elastic. Add more flour if needed.

Put in greased bowl, cover and let rise in a warm place until double in size. Shape into 4 loaves, put in greased pans. Let rise again. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes. If desired, brush with butter when removed from pan.