6 1/2 c. all purpose flour
2 1/4 c. water
4 pkgs. dry yeast
3/4 tsp. sugar
1 1/2 tsp. lard
4 1/3 c. all purpose flour
1 1/2 c. water
2 1/2 tsp. salt
2 tbsp. plus 1 1/2 tsp. sugar
2 tbsp. lard

Combine first 5 ingredients in a large mixing bowl; mix with heavy duty electric mixer at high speed for 5 minutes. Place dough in a lightly greased large bowl, turning to grease top. Cover dough and let rise in a warm place (85 degrees), free from drafts, 4 hours.

Return dough to large mixing bowl. Add remaining ingredients; beat at high speed 10 to 12 minutes.

Turn dough out onto a floured surface and divide into 5 equal portions; shape each portion into a 14" loaf. Place loaves on greased baking sheets. Place a pan of boiling water on the lower rack oven to obtain steam.

Bake at 425 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes or until done. Yield: 5 loaves.