1 c. lukewarm water or potato water
1 tbsp. sugar
1-2 tbsp. melted butter, bacon fat or lard
1 tbsp. salt
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1 c. sour dough starter
4 1/2 c. (about) flour

Stir together water, sugar, fat and salt. Measure starter and mix in soda. Stir into water mixture. Gradually beat in flour to make a very stiff dough. Turn out onto floured surface and knead in about 1/2 cup more flour to make a smooth, satiny dough. Put back into bowl. Brush top of dough with melted butter. Cover with a cloth, wax paper or foil and let stand in a warm place until double in bulk. Again turn out on a lightly floured surface. Cut the dough in half and shape into 2 loaves. Let stand in a warm place until double. Bake at 375 degrees for about 40 minutes.