1/2 c. lukewarm water
2 pkg. dry yeast
1 tbsp. sugar
4 c. flour
4 c. lukewarm water, potato water is good!
1 1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 c. sugar
6 tbsp. melted lard (shortening)

Stir 1/2 cup lukewarm water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon sugar until dissolved. Let stand 15 minutes. Mix flour and water. Add and mix salt, sugar, and lard.

Add yeast mixture and beat 10 minutes with electric mixer. Add flour 1 cup at a time and mix with spoon. When dough is rather stiff knead on floured board until dough is stiff and not sticky. Put back in greased covered bowl and let rise until double. Knead and let rise again. Shape into 4 loaves. Let rise one inch above pan and bake in 350 degree oven for 45 minutes. Spread melted butter over loaves when done baking while still hot.