San Francisco Style Sourdough French Bread

1. 1

   In a large mixing bowl dissolve yeast in warm water, mix with starter.

2. 2

   Add 3 cups flour, sugar and salt, stir vigorously 2 or 3 minutes.

3. 3

   Cover with a cloth, set in warm place and let rise 1-1/2 to 2 hours or until doubled in size.

4. 4

   Mix baking soda with 1 cup of remaining flour and stir in, the dough should be stiff.

5. 5

   Turn out onto a floured surface and begin kneading.

6. 6

   Add the remaining 1 cup of flour or more if needed to control stickiness.

7. 7

   Knead until satiny, between 5 and 10 minutes.

8. 8

   Shape into 2 oblong loaves or 1 large round loaf, place on lightly greased cookie sheet.

9. 9

   Cover with a cloth, set in warm place free from drafts and let rise 1 to 2 hours or until nearly doubled in size.

10. 10

    Before baking, brush outside with water and make diagonal slashes across the top with a sharp single-edge razor blade.

11. 11

    Put a shallow pan of hot water in the bottom of the oven.

12. 12

    Bake at 400u00b0 F for 45 minutes or until the crust is a medium dark brown.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.