1 pkg. dry yeast
2 c. lukewarm water
2 tsp. salt
4 c. flour
1 tbsp. sugar

Dissolve yeast in 1 cup lukewarm. While yeast softens, sift flour, sugar and salt in a large bowl. Stir in the dissolved yeast. Add just enough of the 2nd cup water to hold dough together (about 3/4 cup). Stir until you have a rather sticky dough. Cover with clean cloth; set in a warm place until double. (2-4 hours depending warmth of kitchen.) Stir it down; beat well. Divide into 2 parts.

Place in greased 6 inch round casserole. Cover again. Let rise until it reaches top of dish. At this point start oven at 400 degrees. Carefully brush tops with melted butter, taking care not to puncture tops. Bake 15 minutes at 400 degrees. Turn oven down to 350 degrees. Bake additional 45 minutes (bake total of 1 hour). When done; turn onto rack to cool. Great French bread. Delicious as toast, too!