St Joseph'S Bread

1. 1

   Combine the warm water, dry yeast, shortening, sugar and oil. Let stand 5 minutes. Place 21/2 cups of the flour and salt in a large mixing bowl; add liquid mixture. Beat on low speed of electric mixture or stir by hand until all ingredients are thoroughly blended. Stir in as much of the remaining flour as you can mix in with a spoon. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead in enough of the remaining flour to make a moderately stiff dough that is smooth and elastic(6 to 8 minutes total). Shape into a ball. Place in a lightly greased bowl; turn once to grease surface. Cover; let rise in warm place until doubled (45 to 60 minutes).

2. 2

   Punch down; divide the dough into six equal pieces. Cover, let rest 10 minutes. Roll each piece into a 12 inch long rope. Using three ropes for each loaf, braid the dough and secure the ends. Place loaves on a greased baking sheets. cover; let rise until nearly double (30 to 40 minutes). Brush sides and top of the loaves with beaten egg. Sprinkle with sesame seed.

3. 3

   Bake in 400 oven for 25 minutes or intil bread tests done and is golden brown. Remove from baking sheet; cool on rack

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.