2 tbsp. shortening
4 c. buttermilk
2 c. dark brown sugar, packed
1/2 tsp. salt
2 tsp. baking soda
6 c. whole wheat flour
1/4 c. wheat germ (optional)

Grease two 9 x 5 loaf pans with shortening. Pour buttermilk into large bowl. Add sugar, salt, and baking soda, mixing well. Stir in flour. Mix only until moistened; mixture will not be smooth. Pour into prepared pans. Sprinkle tops of loaves with wheat germ, if desired, and lightly pat with the back of a spoon.

Bake at 325 degrees for 1 1/4 hours or until bread pulls slightly away from pan. Loosen bread by running a spatula around loaves. Turn out onto wire rack to cool. If you do not have buttermilk on hand add about 2 tablespoons vinegar to enough milk to equal 4 cups and let sit for a few minutes before using.