3 c. med. rye flour
1/2 c. dark molasses
1/4 c. shortening
1 tbsp. salt
2 1/2 c. hot water
1 pkg. active dry yeast
3 1/2 to 4 c. all-purpose flour (I use unbleached)

Combine first 5 ingredients in mixing bowl. Cool to lukewarm. Stir in yeast then remaining flour to make a stiff dough. Knead on floured surface 10 minutes. Place in greased bowl. Cover, let rise in warm place until doubled, about 2 hours. Punch down, let rise 30 minutes.

Shape into 3 balls. Cover, let rise 10 minutes. Shape into round or long rolls. Place in greased 8 inch round or 9 x 5 inch loaf pans. Cover and let rise until very light, 1 to 1 1/4 hours. Bake at 375 degrees for 30 to 35 minutes.