2 1/4 to 2 3/4 c. flour
1 pkg. fast-rising yeast
1 tbsp. sugar
2 tsp. salt
1 c. water
2 tbsp. shortening
1 egg white, slightly beaten
1 tbsp. water
3-4 tbsp. poppy or sesame seeds

In large mixer bowl, combine 1 cup flour, yeast, sugar and salt; mix well. In saucepan, heat water and shortening until very warm (120-130 degrees, shortening does not need to melt). Add to flour mixture. Blend at low speed until moistened; beat 3 minutes at medium speed.

By hand, gradually stir in enough remaining flour to make a soft dough. Knead on floured surface until smooth and elastic, 5-8 minutes. Place in greased bowl, turning to grease top. Cover; let rise in warm place until double, about 25 minutes. Punch down dough. Divide into 4 parts. Divide each fourth into 6 pieces.

On lightly floured surface, roll each piece to an 8-inch rope. Place on greased cookie sheets. Combine egg white and water; brush tops of breadsticks. Sprinkle with poppy or sesame seed. Cover; let rise in warm place about 10 minutes. Bake at 400 degrees for 15-20 minutes until deep golden brown. Remove from cookie sheets; cool. Yield: 24 breadsticks.