Dissolve: 1/2 c. warm water 1/2 tsp. sugar

Combine: 2 tbsp. fat 2 tsp. salt 2 c. boiling water

Cool to lukewarm and add yeast mixture. Stir in 7 1/2 to 8 cups flour. Knead 10 minutes or until smooth and elastic. Place in greased bowl, turning once. Let rise until doubled. Punch down and let rest 15 minutes. Divide dough in half. On floured surface, roll each half to a 12 x 15 inch rectangle. Roll up, starting at 15 inch edge. Place loaves on greased cookie sheets and make 4 or 5 slashes diagonally across tops. Let rise until double. Mix and brush on: 2 tbsp. milk

Sprinkle on, if desired, poppy or sesame seeds. Bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes.